Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Georgia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jefferson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Jefferson County ranks #2,018 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 36%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Georgia
Jefferson's rents match the nation's squeeze
Renters in Jefferson County spend 18.6% of their income on housing, matching the national median ratio—but they earn $46,561 annually, nearly $28,000 less than the U.S. median of $74,755. That income gap makes even "average" affordability feel tight for local households.
Dead center in Georgia's housing spectrum
Jefferson County's 18.6% rent-to-income ratio ties exactly with Georgia's state average, placing it squarely in the middle of the state's 159 counties. With median rent at $723, it undercuts the state average of $927 by $204 monthly.
More affordable than nearby Laurens County
Jefferson's $723 median rent runs $46 cheaper than neighboring Laurens County ($769) and significantly below Johnson County ($661 is lower, but Johnson has higher income). Homeownership in Jefferson averages $667 monthly, one of the state's most accessible owner costs.
Buying beats renting for budget-conscious residents
At $723 monthly, rental costs consume 18.6% of Jefferson's median $46,561 income, while homeownership at $667 takes just 17.2%—a rare case where mortgages outpace rent affordability. The median home value of $93,100 puts ownership within reach for many local families.
Consider Jefferson for affordable homeownership
If you're relocating on a modest budget, Jefferson County's sub-$100,000 median home value and low ownership costs rival the South's most accessible housing markets. Compare this county's $667 monthly mortgage to rental markets where $723 is standard—and you'll see why locals are choosing to buy.
Cost of Living Advisory: Jefferson County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Jefferson County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $723/month in gross rent, with 24.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Jefferson County pay $723/month on average, compared to $667/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 $28,920/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $28,586/year. With a median household income of $46,561, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Jefferson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Georgia, Jefferson County is less affordable than Early County by roughly 7% ($723/mo vs $774/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jefferson County
Rent Burden
18.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,086
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Jefferson County
Median home value is $93,100. Estimated monthly cost: $743 vs. your max of $1,086.
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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