Cost of Living in Dallas County, Arkansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Dallas County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Dallas County ranks #805 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 26%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Dallas County, Arkansas
Dallas County's hidden affordability
Despite the lowest median household income ($44,694) among our comparison counties, Dallas County delivers a solid 16.8% rent-to-income ratio—better than the national average. This is driven by the region's lowest median rent of $626 monthly, creating unexpected affordability for low-income households.
Above-average affordability despite low income
Dallas County's 16.8% rent-to-income ratio beats Arkansas' state average of 18.1%, ranking among the most affordable counties in the state. The combination of minimal housing costs and stable (if modest) income creates genuine accessibility for working families.
Cheapest rents in the region
Dallas County's median rent of $626 is notably lower than all surrounding counties—$171 cheaper than Crittenden County ($883) and $161 cheaper than Cross County ($797). Homeownership at $530 monthly similarly offers the lowest owner costs in the comparison group.
Minimal housing drain
Renters spend $626 monthly on a $44,694 median household income—just 16.8%—while homeowners pay $530 monthly (14.2%) for properties valued at $98,200. This leaves Dallas County households with the most disposable income relative to housing costs among all comparison counties.
Dallas County rewards modest means
If you're relocating on a tight budget or looking to maximize savings, Dallas County offers the best rent-to-income balance in the region. A household earning $45,000 annually would spend approximately $626 monthly on rent—an excellent deal compared to national norms.
Cost of Living Advisory: Dallas County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Dallas County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $626/month in gross rent, with 22.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $626/month rent versus $530/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $96/month cheaper — a 15% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $25,040/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $22,714/year. With a median household income of $44,694, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 22.0% of renter households in Dallas County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Dallas County sits 9% less expensive than Desha County ($689/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Dallas County
Rent Burden
16.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,043
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Dallas County
Median home value is $98,200. Estimated monthly cost: $784 vs. your max of $1,043.
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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Counties with Similar Housing Costs
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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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