Cost of Living in Lamar County, Mississippi
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lamar County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Lamar County ranks #1,833 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 42%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lamar County, Mississippi
Strongest incomes support higher housing costs
Lamar County's 18.4% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest among these eight counties, reflecting the highest median household income of $69,106. This near-national-average income ($74,755 nationally) means housing—though pricier at $1,061 monthly rent and $218,700 home values—remains comfortably affordable.
Best affordability despite highest prices
Lamar County combines the lowest rent-to-income ratio (18.4%) with the second-highest median income ($69,106) in this dataset, making it Mississippi's most affordable market for those who can afford to live here. The county's economic strength, reflected in $1,061 median rent and $218,700 median home values, outpaces the state average.
Pricier housing reflects economic strength
Lamar County renters pay $1,061 monthly and homebuyers face $218,700 median prices—second-highest in this set after Lafayette County. However, the county's robust $69,106 median income means residents shoulder these costs more easily than neighbors in lower-income counties like Jefferson Davis or Lawrence.
Highest income cushions housing expenses
The typical Lamar County renter spends $1,061 of a $5,759 monthly income on housing, consuming just 18.4% of earnings—the best ratio here. Homeowners investing $1,031 monthly represent an equally manageable 17.9%, demonstrating that strong local incomes make even premium housing affordable.
Premium pay justifies premium housing
Lamar County offers Mississippi's best affordability despite higher housing costs, signaling a robust local economy and stronger job market. If you're relocating to Mississippi and earning above-average income, Lamar County's economic resilience and housing accessibility make it worth serious consideration.
Cost of Living Advisory: Lamar County
Affordability Verdict
Lamar County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,061/month — about 18.4% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Lamar County pay $1,061/month on average, compared to $1,031/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 3%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $42,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $44,186/year. With a median household income of $69,106, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Lamar County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Hancock County where rent averages $999/month, Lamar County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lamar County
Rent Burden
18.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,612
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.9%
of gross income
The median home in Lamar County may be a stretch
Median home value is $218,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,746 vs. your max of $1,612.
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 Lamar County, Mississippi?
What is the median rent in Lamar County?
Is Lamar County affordable?
How does Lamar County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Lamar County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Lamar County, Mississippi? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Lamar 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.