Cost of Living in Johnson County, Arkansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Johnson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Johnson County ranks #1,316 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 42%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Johnson County, Arkansas
Johnson County straddles national affordability
Johnson County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.1% trails the national average slightly, with median rent of $714 running modest compared to national norms. Median household income of $44,808 represents 60% of the national median, reflecting regional economic conditions but stable affordability relative to peers.
Slightly above state affordability average
At 19.1%, Johnson County's rent-to-income ratio edges above Arkansas's 18.1% state average by a narrow margin, positioning it near the middle of the pack. Median rent of $714 exceeds the state median of $760, but modest incomes keep affordability pressure moderate.
Mid-range rental costs in the region
Johnson County's $714 median rent falls between Izard County's $626 and Jefferson County's $849, reflecting its geographic position in northwest Arkansas. Home values of $124,800 rank among the highest in this group, balancing moderate rental costs with solid homeownership value.
Housing takes steady share of income
Johnson residents earning $44,808 dedicate 19.1% to rent ($714/month) and 16.3% to mortgage costs, totaling 35.4% toward housing annually. This rate leaves reasonable room for other household expenses, though not abundant financial cushion for emergencies.
Johnson offers balanced housing tradeoffs
Johnson County presents a middle-ground option: mid-range rents with higher-than-average home values, ideal for those seeking small-town stability with modest homeownership ambitions. Its position on the state affordability scale makes it a thoughtful choice for relocators seeking equilibrium.
Cost of Living Advisory: Johnson County
Affordability Verdict
Johnson County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $714/month — about 19.1% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $714/month rent versus $609/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $105/month cheaper — a 15% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $28,560/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $26,100/year. With a median household income of $44,808, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Johnson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Jackson County where rent averages $662/month, Johnson County is approximately 8% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Johnson County
Rent Burden
19.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,046
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Johnson County
Median home value is $124,800. Estimated monthly cost: $996 vs. your max of $1,046.
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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