Cost of Living in Gilmer County, Georgia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Gilmer County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Gilmer County ranks #1,470 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 47%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Gilmer County, Georgia
Gilmer offers below-average housing burden
Gilmer County residents spend just 15.8% of income on rent—the lowest ratio in this analysis and well below the national average. On a $72,542 median income roughly matching national levels, Gilmer delivers genuine affordability.
Gilmer ranks among Georgia's best values
At 15.8%, Gilmer County's rent-to-income ratio beats the state average by 2.8 percentage points, placing it among Georgia's most affordable rental markets. Mountain-county living translates to measurable savings.
Gilmer balances cost and income well
Gilmer's $955 monthly rent sits just $28 above state average and $184 more than Franklin County, while its $72,542 median income exceeds most rural peers. This balance yields the second-best rent-to-income ratio in the group.
Gilmer keeps housing costs manageable
Gilmer renters pay $955 monthly and homeowners $879, totaling roughly 30% of the $72,542 median income toward housing. This leaves substantial income for other priorities.
Gilmer suits balanced-lifestyle relocators
If you want mountain living with reasonable housing costs and don't require major-city amenities, Gilmer County delivers strong value for households earning $60,000–$85,000. You'll save on housing while gaining natural beauty.
Cost of Living Advisory: Gilmer County
Affordability Verdict
Gilmer County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $955/month representing approximately 15.8% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 26.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Gilmer County pay $955/month on average, compared to $879/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 8%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $37,671/year. With a median household income of $72,542, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Gilmer County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Cook County where rent averages $901/month, Gilmer County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Gilmer County
Rent Burden
15.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,693
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.5%
of gross income
The median home in Gilmer County may be a stretch
Median home value is $278,900. Estimated monthly cost: $2,227 vs. your max of $1,693.
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 Gilmer County, Georgia?
What is the median rent in Gilmer County?
Is Gilmer County affordable?
How does Gilmer County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Gilmer County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Gilmer County, Georgia? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Gilmer 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.