Cost of Living in Howard County, Arkansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Howard County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Howard County, Arkansas
Howard County presents moderate rental affordability
At 18.9%, Howard County's rent-to-income ratio sits slightly below national norms, giving renters a modest advantage compared to the typical U.S. household. The median household income of $44,492 falls well short of the national average of $74,755, while median rent of $702 per month remains competitive for the region.
Howard ranks slightly above state housing burden
With a rent-to-income ratio of 18.9%, Howard County edges above Arkansas's state average of 18.1%, placing it in the moderate-to-higher burden tier statewide. This reflects the county's lower median income relative to rental costs in the region.
Howard's rents are competitive within the cluster
At $702 per month, Howard County's median rent sits between the region's most affordable (Hot Spring at $763) and its midrange options, while home values of $135,400 remain moderate. The county offers a reasonable balance for households seeking lower costs without extreme scarcity.
Howard renters carry slightly elevated burden
With a median household income of just $44,492, renters in Howard County dedicate 18.9% of earnings—$702 per month—to housing, a rate that requires careful budgeting. Homeowners enjoy lower relative costs at $557 monthly on $135,400 properties, making ownership more accessible than renting in this county.
Howard County favors homebuyers over renters
If you're seeking to buy, Howard County's moderate home values ($135,400) and ownership costs ($557/month) present strong value; renters may feel the pinch with an 18.9% housing ratio. Compare these numbers to your circumstances and other Arkansas counties to determine if Howard is the right move for your household.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Howard County
Rent Burden
18.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,038
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.0%
of gross income
The median home in Howard County may be a stretch
Median home value is $135,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,081 vs. your max of $1,038.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.