Cost of Living in Covington County, Alabama
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Covington County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Covington County ranks #1,001 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 32%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Covington County, Alabama
Covington keeps housing costs in check
Covington County's 17.4% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national average, offering residents solid affordability on a median household income of $50,886. The $736 median monthly rent is modest, making housing a manageable expense for most households.
Covington rivals Alabama's best affordability
At 17.4%, Covington performs slightly better than Alabama's 18.0% state average for rent burden, positioning it among the state's more affordable counties. The $736 median rent is about 8% below the state average, providing tangible savings for renters.
Mid-range costs, solid value
Covington's $736 rent falls in the middle of regional options, cheaper than Colbert and Cullman but slightly pricier than Coosa. The county offers balanced affordability—not the cheapest, but with reasonable incomes supporting housing costs effectively.
Balanced housing investment
Renters spending $736 monthly against a $50,886 household income allocate 17.4% to rent, leaving substantial funds for other needs. Homeowners pay $552 monthly with a median home value of $142,500, offering middle-market accessibility for buyers.
Covington balances cost and access
Covington deserves attention if you want solid affordability without the lowest costs in the region—it offers good value and steadier community resources. Compare the $736 rent against neighbors and the $142,500 median home price against counties both cheaper and pricier.
Cost of Living Advisory: Covington County
Affordability Verdict
Covington County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $736/month — about 17.4% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Covington County pay $736/month on average, compared to $552/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 25%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $23,657/year. With a median household income of $50,886, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Covington County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Covington County sits 8% more expensive than DeKalb County ($683/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Covington County
Rent Burden
17.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,187
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Covington County
Median home value is $142,500. Estimated monthly cost: $1,138 vs. your max of $1,187.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Covington County, Alabama?
What is the median rent in Covington County?
Is Covington County affordable?
How does Covington County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Covington County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Covington County, Alabama? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Covington County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.