Cost of Living in Baxter County, Arkansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Baxter County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Baxter County, Arkansas
Baxter County: Housing Crunch Despite Low Wages
Baxter County's 21.5% rent-to-income ratio stands as the highest among these eight counties and above Arkansas's 18.1% state average, signaling a genuine affordability squeeze. At $866 monthly rent on median income of just $48,427, housing claims a notably larger slice of the household budget than elsewhere.
Least Affordable County in This Group
Baxter County's rent-to-income ratio of 21.5% markedly exceeds the state average and represents the worst affordability profile across these eight counties. Despite mid-range income, renters here face disproportionate housing pressure that erodes purchasing power for other essentials.
Rising Rents, Strained Wallets
Baxter County's $866 rent rivals Benton County's $1,193 (though Benton earns far more income) and substantially exceeds nearby options like Boone County ($715) and Carroll County ($818). High home values ($165,400) compound affordability challenges, pricing out lower-income residents from ownership.
Housing Dominates the Budget
Renters devote 21.5% of income to housing while homeowners pay $631 monthly—an unusual gap favoring ownership that reflects the rental market's premium pricing. With median income of $48,427, nearly a quarter of annual earnings flows to housing, limiting flexibility elsewhere.
Baxter County: Weigh Carefully Before Moving
Baxter County's rising rents and income-to-housing squeeze make it a tougher sell for budget-conscious relocators compared to more affordable Arkansas alternatives. Consider this county only if employment prospects outweigh the elevated housing burden.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Baxter County
Rent Burden
21.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,130
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.6%
of gross income
The median home in Baxter County may be a stretch
Median home value is $165,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,320 vs. your max of $1,130.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.