Cost of Living in Stephens County, Georgia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Stephens County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Stephens County ranks #1,903 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 39%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Stephens County, Georgia
Stephens County nears national affordability
At 18.8%, Stephens County's rent-to-income ratio sits just slightly above the national norm, achieving reasonable affordability despite a median household income of $52,264 that runs $22,491 below the national average. The county's $817 median rent remains moderate for a rural market, offering decent value for tight household budgets.
Slightly above Georgia averages
Stephens County's 18.8% rent-to-income ratio nudges above Georgia's 18.6% state average by just 0.2 percentage points, placing it squarely in the state's middle-affordability tier. The county effectively matches statewide housing pressure despite rural characteristics.
Moderate costs in rural tier
Stephens' $817 median rent sits between Seminole County's $819 and Schley County's $746, while its $168,200 median home value ranks mid-range across the eight-county group. The county represents balanced rural pricing—neither a bargain nor a burden compared to regional peers.
Near-optimal housing-to-income balance
Stephens renters spend 18.8% of income ($817 monthly) on housing, while homeowners allocate 17.3% ($754), among the most balanced ratios in this comparison. At $52,264 median household income, residents retain reasonable flexibility after housing payments.
Solid choice for balanced rural living
Stephens County delivers genuine affordability without the extreme trade-offs of the cheapest rural counties, offering moderate rents and a manageable 18.8% housing burden. Consider it if you value small-town living with rent below 20% of income.
Cost of Living Advisory: Stephens County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Stephens County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $817/month in gross rent, with 26.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Stephens County is $817/month, while owner costs run $754/month. Owning saves approximately $63/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $32,314/year. With a median household income of $52,264, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Stephens County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Stephens County sits 7% more expensive than Wilkinson County ($766/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Stephens County
Rent Burden
18.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,219
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.3%
of gross income
The median home in Stephens County may be a stretch
Median home value is $168,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,343 vs. your max of $1,219.
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 Stephens County, Georgia?
What is the median rent in Stephens County?
Is Stephens County affordable?
How does Stephens County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Stephens County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Stephens County, Georgia? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Stephens 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.