Cost of Living in Woodruff County, Arkansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Woodruff County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Woodruff County ranks #806 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 26%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Woodruff County, Arkansas
Woodruff Leads on Affordability Nationally
Woodruff County residents enjoy one of the nation's most favorable rent-to-income ratios at 14.3%, beating the national average and leaving room in household budgets for other expenses. At just $595 per month, median rent is 22% below Arkansas's $760 state average—a genuine bargain in today's housing market. However, the median household income of $49,982 trails the national average of $74,755, meaning affordability stems partly from lower overall wages rather than abundant opportunity.
Most Affordable Rentals in Arkansas
Woodruff County's 14.3% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Arkansas's best, providing renters with the state's lowest proportional housing burden. At $595 monthly, Woodruff offers the cheapest median rent of any Arkansas county, making it a haven for budget-conscious renters and fixed-income households. This affordability advantage defines Woodruff's appeal within the state housing landscape, though incomes remain below state and national benchmarks.
The Bargain Option Among Three
Woodruff County's $595 rent undercuts both White County ($806, up 35%) and Yell County ($653, up 9.8%), establishing it as the clear affordability leader regionally. Monthly homeowner costs of $487 are similarly the lowest among the three, with a median home value of just $96,800—ideal for first-time buyers. Despite the lowest incomes ($49,982), Woodruff residents spend the smallest share of earnings on housing across this three-county cluster.
Woodruff's Housing-Income Balance
Renters allocate $595 monthly (14.3% of income) to housing, the lowest burden in the comparison group and well below the 18% threshold considered sustainable. Homeowners spend just $487 per month, representing 11.7% of income—exceptionally light for mortgage, property tax, and insurance combined on a $96,800 median home. After housing costs, a typical Woodruff household retains roughly $41,000 annually for all other needs.
Woodruff for Ultra-Budget Relocators
Woodruff County is Arkansas's top choice if housing affordability is your primary relocation driver—rents and mortgages won't drain your paycheck. Expect the lowest costs in the region but also the lowest incomes, so this county suits retirees, remote workers, and families earning under $50,000 who prioritize low housing ratios. Compare Woodruff's $595 rent to Yell's $653 or White's $806 to see how much you'll save by choosing the most affordable option.
Cost of Living Advisory: Woodruff County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Woodruff County is affordable. The median rent is $595/month against a median household income of $49,982, putting rent at 14.3% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $595/month rent versus $487/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $108/month cheaper — a 18% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $23,800/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $20,871/year. With a median household income of $49,982, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Woodruff County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Woodruff County sits 8% less expensive than Poinsett County ($647/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Woodruff County
Rent Burden
14.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,166
per month
Owner Cost Burden
11.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Woodruff County
Median home value is $96,800. Estimated monthly cost: $773 vs. your max of $1,166.
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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