Cost of Living in Chilton County, Alabama
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Chilton County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Chilton County ranks #1,999 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 36%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Chilton County, Alabama
Chilton balances decent income with affordability
Chilton County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.6% is one of Alabama's best, significantly below the national norm and reflecting relatively strong household incomes of $61,873—only 17% below the U.S. median. Renters here allocate one-sixth of their income to housing, freeing resources for other needs.
Top-tier Alabama affordability story
Chilton County's 16.6% rent-to-income ratio beats Alabama's state average of 18.0% by 1.4 percentage points, ranking among the state's most affordable. The median income of $61,873 also exceeds most of its peers, creating a powerful affordability advantage.
Higher rent, offset by stronger income
Chilton's $855 monthly rent is slightly above neighbors like Chambers ($850) and Cherokee ($750), but the county's $61,873 median income—highest among eastern Alabama peers—keeps the rent-to-income ratio low. This income advantage makes housing feel genuinely affordable despite higher nominal rents.
Strongest income-to-housing ratio in region
At $855 monthly rent on a $61,873 median income, Chilton residents dedicate just 16.6% to renting, while homeownership averages $654 per month on $142,300-valued homes. Total housing costs consume roughly 24–25% of income—among the lowest burden rates statewide.
Chilton offers income-plus-affordability combo
Relocate to Chilton County if you want the rare combination of above-average income, manageable housing costs, and genuine savings versus national norms. Its 16.6% rent ratio and $61,873 median income outperform most Alabama alternatives.
Cost of Living Advisory: Chilton County
Affordability Verdict
Chilton County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $855/month — about 16.6% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Chilton County pay $855/month on average, compared to $654/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 24%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $28,029/year. With a median household income of $61,873, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 21.0% of renter households in Chilton County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Chilton County sits 6% more expensive than Calhoun County ($804/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Chilton County
Rent Burden
16.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,444
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Chilton County
Median home value is $142,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,136 vs. your max of $1,444.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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