Cost of Living in Highlands County, Florida
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Highlands County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Highlands County ranks #1,742 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 45%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Highlands County, Florida
Highlands offers solid national affordability
Highlands County residents spend just 21.2% of income on rent, beating Florida's state average of 22.5% and well below the national 30% concern level. The county's median household income of $55,581 and median rent of $980 combine to create one of Florida's more favorable housing situations.
Top-tier affordability within Florida
Highlands ranks among Florida's most affordable counties with a rent-to-income ratio of 21.2%—one of the lowest statewide. The median rent of $980 significantly undercuts Florida's median of $1,233, positioning Highlands as a genuine savings destination for cost-conscious renters.
Competitive with rural peers, beats growth areas
Highlands' $980 monthly rent rivals Hendry County ($958) while crushing Hillsborough's $1,543, offering clear cost advantages across the spectrum. For homebuyers, Highlands' $177,900 median home value is the lowest among comparable counties, with ownership costs of just $643 monthly.
Owning is significantly cheaper here
Renters pay $980 monthly (21.2% of income) while homeowners spend just $643—a $337 monthly gap favoring ownership. With a median household income of $55,581, this spread means homeowners recoup significant savings, making Highlands particularly attractive for buyers seeking true value.
Highlands County champions affordability
If budget is your priority, Highlands delivers: rents around $980 and homes under $178K with monthly costs under $650. The county's 21.2% rent-to-income ratio is among Florida's best, freeing up money for savings or quality of life investments.
Cost of Living Advisory: Highlands County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Highlands County is affordable. The median rent is $980/month against a median household income of $55,581, putting rent at 21.2% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Highlands County pay $980/month on average, compared to $643/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 34%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $39,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $27,557/year. With a median household income of $55,581, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Highlands County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Glades County where rent averages $927/month, Highlands County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Highlands County
Rent Burden
21.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,297
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.9%
of gross income
The median home in Highlands County may be a stretch
Median home value is $177,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,420 vs. your max of $1,297.
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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