Cost of Living in Craighead County, Arkansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Craighead County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Craighead County ranks #2,632 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 16%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Craighead County, Arkansas
Craighead renters exceed state norms
Craighead County's 19.4% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Arkansas's state average of 18.1%, indicating tighter affordability pressures for renters. The median household income of $57,615, the highest among the surveyed counties, reflects Craighead's role as a regional economic center, yet housing demand pushes rental costs higher.
Craighead ranks among state's priciest
Craighead County's 19.4% rent-to-income ratio places it among Arkansas's least affordable counties, despite the highest median income surveyed. The $198,700 median home value—also the highest in this region—reflects Craighead's position as the state's most developed area outside major metros.
Craighead rents dominate the region
Craighead's median rent of $930 significantly exceeds all regional peers—more than $100 above the state average of $760 and roughly $280 above Cleveland County. This premium reflects Craighead's status as a regional job center and most desirable county in the surveyed area.
Craighead renters spend 19% of income
Craighead households earning $57,615 spend $930 monthly on rent—approximately 19% of income, the highest burden among surveyed counties. Homeowners pay $914 monthly on homes valued at $198,700, requiring substantial household resources for homeownership.
Craighead suits higher-income relocators
If you're relocating to Arkansas with above-average income seeking employment opportunities and regional development, Craighead offers jobs and amenities—but at premium costs. Compare Craighead's $930 rent against more affordable nearby options like Clay ($696) or Cleveland ($635) to determine if the premium aligns with your career gains.
Cost of Living Advisory: Craighead County
Affordability Verdict
Craighead County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $930/month representing approximately 19.4% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 31.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Craighead County pay $930/month on average, compared to $914/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 2%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $37,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $39,171/year. With a median household income of $57,615, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Craighead County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Arkansas, Craighead County is more affordable than Baxter County by roughly 7% ($930/mo vs $866/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Craighead County
Rent Burden
19.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,344
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.0%
of gross income
The median home in Craighead County may be a stretch
Median home value is $198,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,586 vs. your max of $1,344.
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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