Cost of Living in Hot Spring County, Arkansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Hot Spring County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Hot Spring County ranks #1,501 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 48%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Hot Spring County, Arkansas
Hot Spring County offers below-average housing burden
At 17.4%, Hot Spring County's rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national threshold, giving renters here an advantage compared to typical U.S. households. The median household income of $52,644 trails the national average of $74,755, yet median rent of $763 per month ranks as one of the region's most affordable options.
Hot Spring beats Arkansas's affordability average
With a rent-to-income ratio of 17.4%, Hot Spring County outperforms the state average of 18.1%, placing it in the more affordable half of Arkansas counties. This edge reflects the county's low rental market relative to household incomes.
Hot Spring offers some of the region's cheapest rents
At $763 per month, Hot Spring's median rent ranks lowest in this county cluster, undercutting Grant ($779), Independence ($814), and Garland ($942) by meaningful margins. Home values ($127,900) also remain moderate, making Hot Spring attractive to budget-conscious households.
Hot Spring housing costs align with household income
Renters in Hot Spring County dedicate 17.4% of their $52,644 median income—$763 per month—to housing, a sustainable ratio that leaves room for other priorities. Homeowners pay $666 monthly on properties worth $127,900, with both groups enjoying balanced relationships between income and shelter costs.
Hot Spring County delivers rural affordability
Hot Spring County combines some of the region's lowest rents with moderate home values and a below-average housing burden, making it ideal for families prioritizing affordability. Review these metrics against your current location and other Arkansas options to gauge the financial impact of relocating here.
Cost of Living Advisory: Hot Spring County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Hot Spring County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $763/month in gross rent, with 24.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $763/month rent versus $666/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $97/month cheaper — a 13% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,520/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $28,543/year. With a median household income of $52,644, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Hot Spring County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Arkansas, Hot Spring County is more affordable than Drew County by roughly 7% ($763/mo vs $712/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Hot Spring County
Rent Burden
17.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,228
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Hot Spring County
Median home value is $127,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,021 vs. your max of $1,228.
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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