Cost of Living in Washington County, Alabama
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Washington County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Washington County ranks #236 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 8%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Washington County, Alabama
Washington County's Housing Deal
At 12.5%, Washington County's rent-to-income ratio beats the national standard by a comfortable margin—renters here spend far less of their paychecks on housing than typical Americans. The county's median rent of $628 sits well below the national norm, giving households breathing room in their budgets compared to peers across the country.
Most Affordable in Alabama
Washington County ranks among Alabama's most housing-friendly counties, with a rent-to-income ratio of 12.5% versus the state average of 18%. This advantage reflects both lower rents and a median household income of $60,503 that outpaces many rural Alabama communities.
Cheaper Than Its Peers
Washington County's $628 median rent undercuts neighboring Wilcox County ($699) and Winston County ($744) by significant margins. Renters here enjoy one of the region's best affordability profiles, with housing costs that remain genuinely accessible to working families.
Rent, Ownership, Income
Renters spend $628 monthly while homeowners budget $529 for mortgage and taxes—meaning both groups stay well below the 30% affordability threshold. With a median household income of $60,503, Washington County residents dedicate just 12.5% of earnings to rent, leaving substantially more for other necessities.
Consider Washington County
If affordability matters, Washington County delivers: low rents, modest home prices ($152,800 median), and a cost-of-living advantage over neighboring counties and most of Alabama. Families and remote workers seeking genuine housing bargains while staying in the Southeast should put this county on their comparison list.
Cost of Living Advisory: Washington County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Washington County is affordable. The median rent is $628/month against a median household income of $60,503, putting rent at 12.5% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $628/month rent versus $529/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $99/month cheaper — a 16% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $25,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $22,671/year. With a median household income of $60,503, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Washington County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Washington County sits 8% less expensive than Coosa County ($682/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Washington County
Rent Burden
12.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,412
per month
Owner Cost Burden
10.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Washington County
Median home value is $152,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,220 vs. your max of $1,412.
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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