Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Arkansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jefferson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Jefferson County ranks #2,926 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 7%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Arkansas
Jefferson County's housing costs run high
Jefferson County's rent-to-income ratio of 21.0% ranks significantly above the national standard, with median gross rent of $849 substantially outpacing national norms. Median household income of $48,552 falls 35% short of the national median, creating affordability strain despite reasonable incomes for Arkansas.
Arkansas's least affordable county here
At 21.0%, Jefferson County's rent-to-income ratio stands well above Arkansas's 18.1% average, making it the least affordable in this group. Median rent of $849 is the highest among these eight counties, reflecting higher costs relative to state and regional patterns.
Rental costs spike in Jefferson County
Jefferson County's median rent of $849 significantly exceeds nearby counties—$223 more than Izard County and $137 more than Jackson County. Home values of $106,000 remain moderate, but overall housing costs push affordability into challenging territory regionally.
Housing consumes over 40% of income
Jefferson residents with median income of $48,552 spend 21.0% on rent ($849/month) and 16.9% on mortgage costs, totaling 37.9% toward housing. This leaves constrained budgets for other essentials and savings, placing significant pressure on household finances.
Jefferson County suits higher earners
If relocating to Jefferson County, ensure your income substantially exceeds the county median to weather its elevated housing costs comfortably. The area's higher rents and mortgage costs demand careful financial planning compared to other Arkansas options.
Cost of Living Advisory: Jefferson County
Affordability Verdict
Jefferson County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $849/month — about 21.0% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $849/month rent versus $683/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $166/month cheaper — a 20% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $33,960/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $29,271/year. With a median household income of $48,552, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Jefferson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Jefferson County sits 7% more expensive than Cross County ($797/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jefferson County
Rent Burden
21.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,133
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Jefferson County
Median home value is $106,000. Estimated monthly cost: $846 vs. your max of $1,133.
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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Counties with Similar Housing Costs
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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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