Cost of Living in Lawrence County, Alabama
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lawrence County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Lawrence County ranks #675 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 21%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lawrence County, Alabama
Lawrence County offers strong rental affordability
Lawrence County's 14.2% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the lowest affordability stress levels, well below national averages and Alabama's state mean. Renters earning $60,040 pay just $708 monthly—demonstrating that reasonable wages plus modest rents create genuine housing security.
Well above-average affordability statewide
Lawrence County's 14.2% rent-to-income ratio significantly beats Alabama's 18.0% state average, placing it among the state's most affordable counties. This advantage combines solid incomes with below-average rental costs.
Second-lowest rents, strong income balance
Lawrence County renters pay $708 monthly—only Lamar County's $548 beats this—while earning $60,040, higher than most rural peers. This combination of low rents and relatively strong incomes creates the county's 14.2% ratio advantage.
Lawrence County housing expense reality
Households earning $60,040 annually ($5,003 monthly) dedicate just $708 to gross rent—14.2% of income, leaving substantial cushion. Homeowners pay $628 monthly on average, with median property values of $150,700 offering accessible entry to ownership.
Smart choice for value-conscious families
Lawrence County combines low rents, reasonable incomes, and solid homeownership opportunities—ideal for families earning $55,000–$65,000. If you want true affordability plus meaningful community and employment options, Lawrence delivers on both fronts.
Cost of Living Advisory: Lawrence County
Affordability Verdict
Lawrence County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $708/month representing approximately 14.2% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 21.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Lawrence County pay $708/month on average, compared to $628/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 11%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $28,320/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $26,914/year. With a median household income of $60,040, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 21.0% of renter households in Lawrence County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Jackson County where rent averages $762/month, Lawrence County is approximately 7% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lawrence County
Rent Burden
14.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,401
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Lawrence County
Median home value is $150,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,203 vs. your max of $1,401.
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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