Cost of Living in Clay County, Mississippi
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Clay County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Clay County, Mississippi
Clay's affordability gap widens nationally
Residents spend 21.6% of income on rent, exceeding Mississippi's average by 2 percentage points and reflecting a median household income of just $39,904. This puts Clay County among the less affordable regions when compared to the national median household income of $74,755.
Below average, but not the worst
Clay County's 21.6% rent-to-income ratio sits above the state average of 19.6%, placing it in the lower-affordability tier of Mississippi counties. It mirrors the pressures of Coahoma and Clarke while outperforming only Claiborne in this cohort.
Mid-range rents, premium home values
Clay's median rent of $718 falls between cheaper Covington ($639) and pricier Clarke ($803), yet its median home value of $115,600 is the second-highest in the region. This suggests stronger property assets but tighter rental-market economics.
Both renters and owners squeeze budgets
Renters pay $718/month (21.6% of income) while homeowners pay $598/month (17.9%), with both groups dedicating substantial chunks of the $39,904 median income to housing. Neither path offers comfortable breathing room.
Strong property values, weaker rental options
If relocating to Clay County, prioritize homeownership: the median home value of $115,600 reflects market strength, while rents remain tight relative to incomes. Compare ownership costs carefully against neighboring counties like Copiah and Covington before committing.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Clay County
Rent Burden
21.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$931
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Clay County
Median home value is $115,600. Estimated monthly cost: $923 vs. your max of $931.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.