Cost of Living in Monroe County, Mississippi
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Monroe County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Monroe County, Mississippi
Monroe County hits affordability sweet spot
Monroe County renters spend 16.9% of income on rent, just above the national 16% benchmark and well below Mississippi's 19.6% state average. At $721 monthly on a $51,231 median income, Monroe delivers solid affordability without sacrifice.
Top tier of Mississippi affordability
Monroe County's 16.9% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Mississippi's most affordable, beaten only by Lee ($16.6%) and Madison ($16.7%). This performance is remarkable given that Monroe's median income trails both those counties, showing that conservative rents here do real work.
Lowest rents, solid wage foundation
Monroe's $721 rent ranks among the region's cheapest, yet the $51,231 median income is respectable—higher than Marion ($42,320) and Leflore ($33,188). This combination delivers the region's best bang-for-buck housing.
Renters prosper; homeowners thrive
Renters pay $721 monthly (16.9% of income), while homeowners commit just $637 monthly on properties valued at $115,200—representing only 14.9% of income. Monroe offers the region's best homeownership value relative to wages, beating even Lincoln County.
Monroe delivers real affordability gains
If you're relocating and prioritize keeping housing costs below 17% of income, Monroe County excels: cheap rents, affordable homes, and modest wages that still stretch your dollar. Compare your current burden—if you're paying more than 18%, Monroe offers measurable relief.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Monroe County
Rent Burden
16.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,195
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Monroe County
Median home value is $115,200. Estimated monthly cost: $920 vs. your max of $1,195.
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.