Cost of Living in Richmond County, Georgia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Richmond County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Richmond County ranks #2,618 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 17%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Richmond County, Georgia
Richmond rents strain household budgets
At 24.5%, Richmond County's rent-to-income ratio runs 6 percentage points higher than the national norm, meaning renters here spend roughly a quarter of their earnings on housing. The county's median household income of $53,197 falls $21,558 below the national average, widening the affordability gap significantly.
Above Georgia's housing pressure line
Richmond County's 24.5% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Georgia's state average of 18.6% by nearly 6 points, placing it among the state's more strained housing markets. Only the most expensive metro counties in Georgia face comparable affordability pressures for renters.
Pricier than surrounding rural counties
Richmond's median rent of $1,087 runs $140-$499 above neighboring rural counties like Screven ($629) and Schley ($746), though it remains below Rockdale County's $1,341. The county's median home value of $163,300 sits squarely between its rural neighbors and the more developed Rockdale County's $256,600.
Housing consumes nearly a quarter of income
Richmond renters spend $1,087 monthly on housing while homeowners pay $991, leaving limited room in a $53,197 median household income for other essentials. Together, these housing costs represent 24.5% of renters' income and 22.3% of homeowners' income, both above comfort thresholds.
Consider rural neighbors for lower costs
If you're weighing a move to this region, comparing Richmond to nearby Screven County could save you $458 monthly in rent with similar community amenities. Homebuyers might also explore the $152,900 median value in Schley County—roughly $11,000 less than Richmond's comparable properties.
Cost of Living Advisory: Richmond County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Richmond County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,087/month in gross rent, with 33.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,087/month rent versus $991/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $96/month cheaper — a 9% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $43,480/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $42,471/year. With a median household income of $53,197, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 33.0% of renter households in Richmond County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Georgia, Richmond County is less affordable than Houston County by roughly 5% ($1,087/mo vs $1,143/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Richmond County
Rent Burden
24.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,241
per month
Owner Cost Burden
22.4%
of gross income
The median home in Richmond County may be a stretch
Median home value is $163,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,304 vs. your max of $1,241.
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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