Cost of Living in Sebastian County, Arkansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Sebastian County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Sebastian County ranks #2,867 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 9%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Sebastian County, Arkansas
Sebastian stays near the national norm
Sebastian County renters spend 18.1% of their income on housing, matching the national average exactly. However, median household income here is $56,450—25% below the national median of $74,755—which means residents earn less while paying proportionally similar rents.
Right in the Arkansas middle
Sebastian County's 18.1% rent-to-income ratio ties the state average, placing it squarely in the middle of Arkansas affordability. At $854 monthly rent, it runs $94 above the state median, reflecting its larger city infrastructure in Fort Smith.
Higher costs, similar burdens
Sebastian County's $854 rent exceeds nearby Sevier County ($725) and Van Buren County ($727), yet residents here earn more—$56,450 versus Sevier's $51,641. This income advantage keeps the housing burden proportionally manageable despite steeper rents.
Split between rent and ownership
Renters pay $854 monthly while homeowners spend $831—nearly identical costs. With a median home value of $166,000 and median income of $56,450, Sebastian County offers balanced housing options for both renters and buyers.
Consider Sebastian for stability
If you're relocating to Arkansas, Sebastian County offers housing costs aligned with your income and the broader state market. Compare it to Washington County's higher costs ($1,005 rent) or Sevier County's lower prices to find your ideal fit.
Cost of Living Advisory: Sebastian County
Affordability Verdict
Sebastian County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $854/month representing approximately 18.2% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 25.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Sebastian County is $854/month, while owner costs run $831/month. Owning saves approximately $23/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,160/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $35,614/year. With a median household income of $56,450, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Sebastian County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Sebastian County sits 7% more expensive than Arkansas County ($799/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Sebastian County
Rent Burden
18.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,317
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.7%
of gross income
The median home in Sebastian County may be a stretch
Median home value is $166,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,325 vs. your max of $1,317.
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 Sebastian County, Arkansas?
What is the median rent in Sebastian County?
Is Sebastian County affordable?
How does Sebastian County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Sebastian County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Sebastian County, Arkansas? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Sebastian 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.