Cost of Living in Franklin County, Arkansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Franklin County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Franklin County ranks #1,352 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 43%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Franklin County, Arkansas
Franklin County's solid affordability
Franklin County delivers a 16.6% rent-to-income ratio—better than the national standard and competitive with Arkansas' best-performing counties. The median household income of $51,919 pairs with modest median rent of $717 monthly, creating genuine housing accessibility for working families.
Above-average for Arkansas
Franklin County's 16.6% rent-to-income ratio beats Arkansas' state average of 18.1%, ranking among the state's more affordable counties. The combination of reasonable income levels and low rents makes this county a bright spot in the region.
Competitive balance between income and cost
Franklin County's median rent of $717 is lower than Crawford ($828) and Crittenden ($883) but slightly higher than Dallas ($626) and Desha ($689). The median household income of $51,919 positions Franklin well above the lowest-income counties, creating a balanced affordability profile.
Affordable housing, reasonable income
Renters spend $717 monthly on a $51,919 median household income—just 16.6%—while homeowners pay $589 monthly (13.6%) for properties valued at $118,800. Franklin County households enjoy the second-best rent-to-income ratio in the comparison group while maintaining healthy income levels.
Franklin County rewards smart movers
If you're seeking genuine affordability without sacrificing income potential, Franklin County offers one of the region's best balances. A household earning $52,000 annually would spend approximately $717 monthly on rent—leaving substantial resources for savings and quality-of-life investments.
Cost of Living Advisory: Franklin County
Affordability Verdict
Franklin County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $717/month — about 16.6% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Franklin County is $717/month, while owner costs run $589/month. Owning saves approximately $128/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $28,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $25,243/year. With a median household income of $51,919, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Franklin County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Franklin County sits 8% more expensive than Jackson County ($662/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Franklin County
Rent Burden
16.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,211
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Franklin County
Median home value is $118,800. Estimated monthly cost: $948 vs. your max of $1,211.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Franklin County, Arkansas?
What is the median rent in Franklin County?
Is Franklin County affordable?
How does Franklin County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Franklin County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Franklin County, Arkansas? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Franklin County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.