Cost of Living in Garland County, Arkansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Garland County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Garland County ranks #2,644 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 16%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Garland County, Arkansas
Garland County housing pinches harder than most
At 20.4%, Garland County's rent-to-income ratio exceeds the national affordability threshold by 3 percentage points, meaning renters here carry a heavier housing burden than the typical American household. The median household income of $55,409 puts the county well below the national average of $74,755, while median rent of $942 per month runs $182 above Arkansas's state average.
Garland ranks among Arkansas's least affordable counties
With a rent-to-income ratio of 20.4%, Garland County significantly outpaces the state average of 18.1%, placing it in the higher-cost tier across Arkansas. This means Garland households allocate a larger share of income to rent than most Arkansans.
Garland rents lead the region—and the price tag shows
At $942 per month, Garland's median rent tops most neighboring counties in this central Arkansas cluster, including Greene ($852), Independence ($814), and Hot Spring ($763). Median home values ($176,400) also run considerably higher, reflecting Garland's position as a regional economic hub.
Renters shoulder the heaviest burden in Garland
With a median household income of $55,409, renters in Garland County dedicate 20.4% of their earnings—$942 per month—to rent, well above the 15% comfort threshold. Homeowners fare somewhat better, paying $755 monthly on properties valued near $176,400, but overall housing consumes roughly one-third of household budgets.
Garland offers urban amenities—at a premium
Garland County's higher costs reflect its regional prominence and diverse economy, making it ideal for those seeking more urban amenities and job opportunities. If affordability is your priority, compare these numbers to quieter neighboring counties before committing to the move.
Cost of Living Advisory: Garland County
Affordability Verdict
Garland County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $942/month representing approximately 20.4% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 26.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Garland County pay $942/month on average, compared to $755/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 20%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $37,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $32,357/year. With a median household income of $55,409, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Garland County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Crittenden County where rent averages $883/month, Garland County is approximately 7% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Garland County
Rent Burden
20.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,293
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.4%
of gross income
The median home in Garland County may be a stretch
Median home value is $176,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,408 vs. your max of $1,293.
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 Garland County, Arkansas?
What is the median rent in Garland County?
Is Garland County affordable?
How does Garland County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Garland County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Garland County, Arkansas? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Garland 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.