Cost of Living in Winston County, Alabama
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Winston County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Winston County ranks #550 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 17%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Winston County, Alabama
Winston County's Tight Fit
At 18.6%, Winston County's rent-to-income ratio sits slightly above the national comfort threshold, indicating renters here stretch a bit harder to cover housing. With a median household income of $48,032—35% below the national average of $74,755—residents face income pressures that outweigh housing-cost issues.
Right at State Average
Winston County's 18.6% rent-to-income ratio essentially matches Alabama's 18% state average, placing it squarely in the middle of the state's affordability spectrum. The county's median income of $48,032 explains why housing feels less accessible here than in wealthier Alabama communities.
Highest Rents in the Group
Winston County's $744 median rent tops both Washington County ($628) and Wilcox County ($699), yet its income ($48,032) falls between them. This combination makes Winston less affordable than Washington County for renters, despite modestly lower housing costs than some state peers.
Where Income Meets Costs
Renters dedicate $744 monthly to housing while homeowners budget $591, consuming 18.6% and 14.8% of the $48,032 median household income. Winston residents allocate a substantial—though not extreme—share of earnings to housing, leaving moderate cushion for other expenses.
Winston: Middle-Ground Option
Winston County appeals to those seeking rural Alabama living with mid-range affordability: $744 rents and a $110,500 median home value offer reasonable costs. Relocating families should compare Winston directly with Washington County's superior income levels and rental affordability.
Cost of Living Advisory: Winston County
Affordability Verdict
Winston County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $744/month representing approximately 18.6% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 28.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $744/month rent versus $591/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $153/month cheaper — a 21% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,760/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $25,329/year. With a median household income of $48,032, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Winston County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Winston County sits 7% less expensive than Lauderdale County ($799/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Winston County
Rent Burden
18.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,121
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Winston County
Median home value is $110,500. Estimated monthly cost: $882 vs. your max of $1,121.
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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