Cost of Living in Macon County, Alabama
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Macon County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Macon County ranks #978 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 31%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Macon County, Alabama
Macon County slightly strains budgets
Macon County's 18.5% rent-to-income ratio sits just above the national average, while median household income of $45,951 trails the U.S. median significantly. Renters here spend $709 monthly on housing, a manageable amount that still consumes a meaningful share of paychecks.
Near-average affordability statewide
Macon County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.5% closely mirrors Alabama's state average of 18.0%, placing it solidly in the middle of the affordability spectrum. At $709 monthly rent, the county undercuts the state median of $799.
Competitive rents, modest incomes
Macon County's $709 rent is lower than Lee and Madison counties but slightly higher than Marion and Marengo, while income levels remain below regional peers. For renters, Macon offers reasonable housing costs relative to the surrounding area.
Homeowning slightly cheaper than renting
Monthly rent averages $709 while homeowner costs run $613 on a $45,951 median income, making home purchase appealing if financing is available. Either way, housing consumes roughly 15-18% of household earnings, leaving modest room for other expenses.
Macon County balances cost and value
If you're seeking lower rent without rock-bottom wages, Macon County delivers reasonable middle ground—housing costs are manageable and below state average. Prospective buyers should explore ownership options here, where monthly payments dip below rental costs.
Cost of Living Advisory: Macon County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Macon County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $709/month in gross rent, with 33.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Macon County is $709/month, while owner costs run $613/month. Owning saves approximately $96/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $28,360/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $26,271/year. With a median household income of $45,951, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 33.0% of renter households in Macon County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Macon County sits 7% less expensive than Jackson County ($762/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Macon County
Rent Burden
18.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,072
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Macon County
Median home value is $95,700. Estimated monthly cost: $764 vs. your max of $1,072.
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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