Cost of Living in Escambia County, Alabama
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Escambia County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Escambia County, Alabama
Escambia rents squeeze tight household budgets
Renters in Escambia County face a 19.1% rent-to-income ratio despite paying just $709/month—the highest burden among all eight counties examined. This tension reflects Escambia's median household income of $44,447, nearly 40% below the national average, making housing an outsized expense for local families.
Above-average rent burden signals economic pressure
Escambia's 19.1% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Alabama's state average of 18.0%, placing it among the state's more strained housing markets. Though local rents of $709 fall below the state median of $799, weak median household income ($44,447) reverses any savings advantage.
Worst affordability in the regional comparison
Escambia's 19.1% rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds neighboring DeKalb (16.0%), Fayette (14.7%), and Franklin County (15.5%), despite comparable rent levels. The county's lower median household income ($44,447) versus its peers' $50,000–$51,000 explains the outsized housing burden.
Housing dominates household budgets here
Renters spend $709/month (19.1% of income) while homeowners pay $523/month on median-valued homes of $122,700. Combined, housing costs can claim up to 38% of annual household income, leaving less for food, transportation, and savings.
Escambia challenges unless your income aligns
Relocating to Escambia works best for households earning $45,000–$50,000+ who accept tighter budgets; lower incomes will struggle with the 19.1% rent burden. Compare Escambia's affordability carefully with neighboring DeKalb and Franklin counties before deciding—both offer better rent-to-income ratios at similar price points.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Escambia County
Rent Burden
19.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,037
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Escambia County
Median home value is $122,700. Estimated monthly cost: $980 vs. your max of $1,037.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.