Cost of Living in Houston County, Alabama
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Houston County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Houston County ranks #1,222 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 39%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Houston County, Alabama
Houston County housing slightly strained
Houston County's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio approaches but stays just under the stress threshold, performing close to the national norm. Renters earning the county's $57,531 median income spend $905 monthly on rent—higher than nearby counties despite comparable wages.
Moderate affordability for Alabama households
At 18.9%, Houston County sits nearly at Alabama's 18.0% state average, placing it squarely in the middle of the state's affordability spectrum. This signals a balanced market without severe pressure, though incomes remain below national levels.
Higher rents than nearby Henry County
Houston County renters face $905 monthly rents—$135 more than Henry County—even with similar household incomes around $57,000–$60,000. Compared to Jackson County ($762), Houston's rental market carries notably steeper costs.
Housing takes nearly one-fifth of income
Houston County households earning $57,531 annually ($4,794 monthly) dedicate $905 to gross rent, consuming 18.9% of income. Homeownership costs $854 monthly on average, with median home values of $178,000 representing a stronger buyer premium than other counties here.
Consider Houston if seeking rural diversity
Houston County suits professionals earning $55,000+ who value slightly higher amenities and employment diversity tied to its larger population base. However, renters should budget carefully, as rents here run 10–15% above comparable rural Alabama counties.
Cost of Living Advisory: Houston County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Houston County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $905/month in gross rent, with 27.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $905/month rent versus $854/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $51/month cheaper — a 6% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $36,600/year. With a median household income of $57,531, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Houston County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Alabama, Houston County is more affordable than Chambers County by roughly 6% ($905/mo vs $850/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Houston County
Rent Burden
18.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,342
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.8%
of gross income
The median home in Houston County may be a stretch
Median home value is $178,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,421 vs. your max of $1,342.
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 Houston County, Alabama?
What is the median rent in Houston County?
Is Houston County affordable?
How does Houston County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Houston County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Houston County, Alabama? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Houston 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.