Cost of Living in Wilcox County, Alabama
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Wilcox County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Wilcox County ranks #745 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 24%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Wilcox County, Alabama
Wilcox County's Affordability Squeeze
At 19.9%, Wilcox County's rent-to-income ratio exceeds the national comfort zone, meaning renters here stretch farther to cover housing costs. With a median household income of just $42,236—43% below the national average—Wilcox residents face tighter financial constraints than typical American households.
Among Alabama's Most Strained
Wilcox County's 19.9% rent-to-income ratio edges above Alabama's 18% average, placing it among the state's least affordable counties. The combination of low income ($42,236) and modest rents ($699) reveals an earnings challenge more than a housing-cost problem.
Neighbors Face Similar Pressures
Wilcox County's rent ($699) falls between Washington County ($628) and Winston County ($744), but its notably lower median income ($42,236) makes housing costs feel heavier. Compared to Washington County's more robust income levels, Wilcox residents face tighter affordability even with moderate rents.
Income vs. Housing Reality
Renters pay $699 monthly while homeowners budget $516—both manageable individually, but they consume 19.9% and 14.7% of the $42,236 median household income respectively. Wilcox residents dedicate a larger share of earnings to housing than peers in surrounding counties, limiting discretionary spending.
Wilcox: Ultra-Low Home Prices
For buyers able to relocate with stable remote income, Wilcox County offers Alabama's lowest median home value ($84,200) and affordable rents. Those moving here should factor that low wages are the real affordability challenge; housing costs themselves rank among the region's lowest.
Cost of Living Advisory: Wilcox County
Affordability Verdict
Wilcox County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $699/month representing approximately 19.9% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 30.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Wilcox County pay $699/month on average, compared to $516/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 26%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $27,960/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $22,114/year. With a median household income of $42,236, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Wilcox County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Wilcox County sits 7% less expensive than Cherokee County ($750/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Wilcox County
Rent Burden
19.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$986
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Wilcox County
Median home value is $84,200. Estimated monthly cost: $672 vs. your max of $986.
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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