Cost of Living in DeSoto County, Mississippi
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How DeSoto County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
DeSoto County ranks #2,780 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 12%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in DeSoto County, Mississippi
DeSoto outearns most of the nation
With a median household income of $82,980, DeSoto County residents earn 11% more than the national average of $74,755. At 19.4%, the county's rent-to-income ratio sits nearly even with the national standard, meaning renters dedicate roughly a fifth of their paycheck to housing—a sign of manageable affordability for the area.
One of Mississippi's pricier rentals
DeSoto's median rent of $1,341 per month runs 72% above Mississippi's state average of $782, reflecting the county's stronger income levels and proximity to Memphis. Despite higher costs, the county's 19.4% rent-to-income ratio beats the state average of 19.6%, making it one of the more affordable wealthy counties in Mississippi.
Higher rents, higher incomes nearby
DeSoto's $1,341 monthly rent is significantly higher than Hancock County ($999) and Harrison County ($1,074), but so is its $82,980 median income—roughly $15,000 more than those neighbors. This income cushion allows DeSoto residents to absorb higher housing costs while maintaining better rent-to-income ratios than peers in the region.
Renters and buyers split costs evenly
DeSoto renters pay $1,341 monthly while homeowners shoulder $1,272 in mortgages and taxes—nearly identical burdens. On a $82,980 household income, these amounts consume about 19% of pretax earnings, leaving residents substantial room for other expenses.
Strong income, manageable housing costs
If you're relocating to Mississippi and prioritize higher wages with reasonable rent, DeSoto delivers: the highest county median income and a rent-to-income ratio competitive with national standards. Compare this profile to counties like Grenada (20.6% ratio) or Harrison (22.5%) to see why DeSoto's affordability edge matters.
Cost of Living Advisory: DeSoto County
Affordability Verdict
DeSoto County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,341/month representing approximately 19.4% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 28.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in DeSoto County is $1,341/month, while owner costs run $1,272/month. Owning saves approximately $69/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $53,640/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $54,514/year. With a median household income of $82,980, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in DeSoto County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Rankin County where rent averages $1,210/month, DeSoto County is approximately 11% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in DeSoto County
Rent Burden
19.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,936
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.4%
of gross income
The median home in DeSoto County may be a stretch
Median home value is $248,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,985 vs. your max of $1,936.
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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