Cost of Living in Burke County, Georgia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Burke County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Burke County ranks #1,617 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 49%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Burke County, Georgia
Burke's rent burden sits below national norms
Burke County renters spend 18.1% of their income on housing—below the national benchmark of 20% and tracking closely with Georgia's 18.6% average. With a median household income of $50,739 against a national median of $74,755, Burke residents are stretching smaller paychecks further, yet housing remains proportionally more manageable here than in many corners of the country.
Burke ranks mid-pack for affordability statewide
Among Georgia's 159 counties, Burke's 18.1% rent-to-income ratio places it squarely in the middle for housing affordability. The county's median rent of $763 falls well below Georgia's state average of $927, offering renters genuine relief compared to pricier metro-adjacent counties.
Burke undercuts nearby Butts and Candler
Burke's median rent of $763 is $189 cheaper than neighboring Butts County ($952) and $57 less than Candler County ($706). When comparing median home values, Burke ($107,800) sits below both Butts ($227,800) and Candler ($135,600), making it a standout value play in the region.
Rents claim more than ownership costs here
Burke renters pay $763 monthly while homeowners carry a median mortgage burden of $603—a gap of $160 favoring ownership. At $50,739 median household income, the typical Burke family allocates 18.1% to rent or 14.3% to mortgage, leaving room for other essentials compared to national squeezes.
Consider Burke for rural Georgia value
If you're weighing rural Georgia options and affordability matters, Burke County delivers low rents, sub-$110K median home values, and below-state-average housing ratios. Compare it against neighboring Butts and Candler to find your sweet spot in this affordable corner of the state.
Cost of Living Advisory: Burke County
Affordability Verdict
Burke County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $763/month — about 18.0% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Burke County pay $763/month on average, compared to $603/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 21%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,520/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $25,843/year. With a median household income of $50,739, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Burke County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Burke County sits 6% less expensive than Hart County ($814/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Burke County
Rent Burden
18.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,184
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Burke County
Median home value is $107,800. Estimated monthly cost: $861 vs. your max of $1,184.
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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