Cost of Living in Lee County, Arkansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lee County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Lee County ranks #2,364 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 25%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lee County, Arkansas
Lee County's income pressure peaks here
Lee County's rent-to-income ratio of 20.8% ranks above national standards, representing one of the steepest burdens in this group despite modest rent of $638. Median household income of just $36,860—the lowest among these eight counties—creates acute affordability strain despite rental costs remaining among the region's cheapest.
Well above Arkansas affordability average
At 20.8%, Lee County's rent-to-income ratio substantially exceeds Arkansas's 18.1% state average, signaling heightened affordability pressure. The county's median income of $36,860 ranks as the lowest statewide in this analysis, driving affordability challenges despite sub-$640 median rent.
Cheapest rents, toughest income squeeze
Lee County's $638 median rent ranks among the region's lowest, but the county's $36,860 median income is lowest as well, creating a squeeze despite cheap housing. Home values of $77,900 offer the second-cheapest entry point for buyers, yet affordability remains constrained by income constraints.
Housing strains the tightest budgets
Lee residents with $36,860 median income dedicate 20.8% to rent ($638/month) and 16.6% to mortgage costs, consuming 37.4% toward housing. Combined with the lowest income base, households face the region's toughest squeeze on discretionary spending and emergency savings.
Lee County requires strategic planning
Relocating to Lee County demands incoming income substantially above the county median, as the combination of low area wages and housing burden leaves minimal room for adjustment. The county suits only those with secure, above-average earnings seeking the region's lowest home and rental prices.
Cost of Living Advisory: Lee County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Lee County is affordable. The median rent is $638/month against a median household income of $36,860, putting rent at 20.8% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Lee County pay $638/month on average, compared to $511/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 20%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $25,520/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $21,900/year. With a median household income of $36,860, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 39.0% of renter households in Lee County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Arkansas, Lee County is less affordable than Desha County by roughly 7% ($638/mo vs $689/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lee County
Rent Burden
20.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$860
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Lee County
Median home value is $77,900. Estimated monthly cost: $622 vs. your max of $860.
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 Lee County, Arkansas?
What is the median rent in Lee County?
Is Lee County affordable?
How does Lee County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Lee County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Lee County, Arkansas? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Lee 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.