Cost of Living in Jackson County, Arkansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jackson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Jackson County ranks #2,341 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 26%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jackson County, Arkansas
Jackson County faces steeper housing burden
Jackson County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.3% exceeds the national baseline, signaling tighter housing affordability despite median rent of $662 being $98 below the national trend. Incomes lag significantly, at $41,215—only 55% of the national median—stretching every housing dollar further.
Middle tier for affordability in Arkansas
At 19.3%, Jackson County's rent-to-income ratio sits slightly above Arkansas's 18.1% state average, placing it in the middle range of affordability statewide. Despite median rent of $662 staying below the state median of $760, lower incomes push the affordability burden higher than average.
Competitive with rural northeast Arkansas
Jackson County's $662 rent aligns closely with nearby counties like Izard ($626) and Lee ($638), positioning it as competitively priced in the region. Home values average $87,300, making it one of the most affordable counties for homebuyers in its neighborhood.
Housing dominates household spending
Jackson residents earning a median of $41,215 annually dedicate 19.3% of income to rent ($662/month) and 15.9% to mortgage costs, consuming over one-third combined. This leaves limited flexibility for utilities, food, transportation, and emergency savings.
Value hunters should explore Jackson County
Jackson County offers the cheapest homes in this group at $87,300 median value, ideal for first-time buyers or those relocating on tight budgets. Be aware that lower incomes here mean housing affordability challenges despite rock-bottom home prices.
Cost of Living Advisory: Jackson County
Affordability Verdict
Jackson County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $662/month — about 19.3% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $662/month rent versus $548/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $114/month cheaper — a 17% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $26,480/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $23,486/year. With a median household income of $41,215, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Jackson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Arkansas, Jackson County is less affordable than Johnson County by roughly 7% ($662/mo vs $714/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jackson County
Rent Burden
19.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$962
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Jackson County
Median home value is $87,300. Estimated monthly cost: $697 vs. your max of $962.
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 Jackson County, Arkansas?
What is the median rent in Jackson County?
Is Jackson County affordable?
How does Jackson County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Jackson County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Jackson County, Arkansas? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Jackson 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.