Cost of Living in Wilkes County, Georgia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Wilkes County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Wilkes County ranks #2,572 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 18%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Wilkes County, Georgia
Wilkes Stays Close to National Affordability
At 17.3%, Wilkes County's rent-to-income ratio aligns well with national context, offering reasonable housing costs relative to the U.S. median income benchmark. The median rent of $759 reflects a small-town Georgia market with genuine workforce affordability.
Moderate Affordability in Northeast Georgia
Wilkes County's 17.3% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below Georgia's 18.6% state average, placing it in the affordable-to-moderate range statewide. The median home value of $105,000 makes homeownership achievable for working families across the region.
Competitive Pricing Among Small-Town Georgia
Wilkes' $759 median rent falls between regional peers, slightly above Wheeler ($551) and Wilcox ($612) but below Wilkinson ($766) and Whitfield ($907). Owner costs of $633 monthly position Wilkes between the county's smallest and mid-size markets.
Just Over One-Sixth Goes to Housing
Wilkes County households earning $52,542 annually spend roughly $759 on rent or $633 on mortgage, consuming 17.3% of gross income. This leaves families with healthy discretionary income while supporting median home values around $105,000.
Northeast Georgia Value With Main Street Character
Wilkes County offers a middle path for families seeking genuine small-town living with solid affordability—your 17.3% housing burden won't strain a working family budget. Compare Wilkes to surrounding counties and you'll see why Northeast Georgia families choose this balanced community.
Cost of Living Advisory: Wilkes County
Affordability Verdict
Wilkes County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $759/month — about 17.3% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $759/month rent versus $633/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $126/month cheaper — a 17% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,360/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $27,129/year. With a median household income of $52,542, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 21.0% of renter households in Wilkes County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Wilkes County sits 8% more expensive than Candler County ($706/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Wilkes County
Rent Burden
17.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,226
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Wilkes County
Median home value is $105,000. Estimated monthly cost: $838 vs. your max of $1,226.
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 Wilkes County, Georgia?
What is the median rent in Wilkes County?
Is Wilkes County affordable?
How does Wilkes County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Wilkes County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Wilkes County, Georgia? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Wilkes 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.