Cost of Living in Cross County, Arkansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Cross County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Cross County, Arkansas
Cross County's affordability crisis
Cross County faces the most severe housing affordability challenge among our comparison counties, with a 20.3% rent-to-income ratio well above the national standard. The median household income of just $47,012—more than 37% below the national median—makes housing costs genuinely burdensome here.
Arkansas' most strained county
At 20.3%, Cross County's rent-to-income ratio ranks among the worst in Arkansas, exceeding the state average of 18.1% by a significant margin. Only Desha County surpasses it in housing cost burden among our comparison group.
Low rents, even lower incomes
Although Cross County's median rent of $797 is moderate compared to Crittenden ($883) and Crawford ($828), the extremely low median household income of $47,012 makes the burden proportionally severe. This income disadvantage—nearly $13,000 below Crawford County—drives the affordability crisis.
Housing dominates the budget
Renters in Cross County allocate 20.3% of their $47,012 median household income to rent, while homeowners pay $679 monthly (17.3% of income) with homes valued at just $104,000. For a household earning $47,000 annually, this leaves only $38,000 for all other expenses.
Cross County requires higher income
Relocate to Cross County only if your household income exceeds $50,000 or if you're pursuing a job opportunity that raises your earning potential significantly. The county's low housing costs won't offset the income constraints unless your personal circumstances improve.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Cross County
Rent Burden
20.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,097
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Cross County
Median home value is $104,000. Estimated monthly cost: $830 vs. your max of $1,097.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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How does Cross County's rent compare to the state average?
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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.