Cost of Living in Columbia County, Arkansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Columbia County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Columbia County ranks #1,698 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 46%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Columbia County, Arkansas
Columbia rents align with national norms
Columbia County's 16.0% rent-to-income ratio falls comfortably below Arkansas's state average of 18.1%, indicating solid affordability. The median household income of $47,363 reflects local economic conditions, but housing costs remain accessible relative to earnings.
Columbia ranks above-average statewide
Columbia County's 16.0% rent-to-income ratio places it well above the state average for affordability, making it an attractive market in Arkansas. The $141,700 median home value suggests a balanced housing market with stable appreciation potential.
Columbia rents remain region's lowest
At $631 monthly, Columbia's median rent is among the lowest in its area—undercutting the state average of $760 and nearby Chicot ($661). This affordability advantage stems partly from Columbia's rural character and lower demand relative to more developed regions.
Columbia allocates 16% to rent
Columbia households earning $47,363 spend $631 monthly on rent—about 16% of income, well-balanced and sustainable. Owner costs average $671 monthly, slightly higher than regional peers, but the $141,700 home value offers reasonable purchase options for long-term residents.
Columbia offers balanced rural living
Columbia County combines low rents, affordable homes, and reasonable affordability ratios for relocators seeking quiet, rural Arkansas life. If you're weighing options between Columbia, Cleveland, and Clay counties, all three offer strong affordability—Columbia edges ahead on home values and owner-cost balance.
Cost of Living Advisory: Columbia County
Affordability Verdict
Columbia County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $631/month representing approximately 16.0% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 26.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $631/month rent versus $671/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $40/month cheaper — a 6% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $25,240/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $28,757/year. With a median household income of $47,363, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Columbia County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Arkansas, Columbia County is less affordable than Desha County by roughly 8% ($631/mo vs $689/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Columbia County
Rent Burden
16.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,105
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.0%
of gross income
The median home in Columbia County may be a stretch
Median home value is $141,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,131 vs. your max of $1,105.
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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