Cost of Living in Montgomery County, Mississippi
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Montgomery County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Montgomery County ranks #779 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 25%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Montgomery County, Mississippi
Montgomery renters spend less than America
At 18.2%, Montgomery County's rent-to-income ratio sits well below the national average, meaning renters here dedicate a smaller share of their paychecks to housing. The county's median household income of $45,057 is about 40% lower than the U.S. median of $74,755, but rental costs are proportionally lower too.
Better affordability than most Mississippi counties
Montgomery's 18.2% rent-to-income ratio beats Mississippi's state average of 19.6%, placing it among the more affordable counties in the state. With median gross rent at just $682 per month—$100 below the state median—renters here catch a break.
Competitive with East Mississippi peers
Montgomery's $682 monthly rent is cheaper than most neighboring counties: Neshoba charges $759, Newton runs $722, and Oktibbeha is significantly higher at $873. Among this cluster of east-central Mississippi counties, Montgomery offers some of the most budget-friendly rents.
Where Montgomery's income goes
The typical household earns $45,057 annually while paying $682 in rent or $735 in mortgage costs, leaving substantial income for other expenses. Housing consumes 18.2% of renter income here—well within the 30% affordability threshold—making Montgomery relatively comfortable for cost-conscious residents.
Montgomery offers affordable renting options
If you're relocating within Mississippi and prioritize low rent, Montgomery's $682 median competes favorably against neighboring Oktibbeha ($873) and Panola ($859). The county's modest income levels and proportionally low housing costs create genuine affordability for renters earning typical regional wages.
Cost of Living Advisory: Montgomery County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Montgomery County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $682/month in gross rent, with 41.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Montgomery County pay $682/month on average, compared to $735/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 7%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $27,280/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $31,500/year. With a median household income of $45,057, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 41.0% of renter households in Montgomery County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Mississippi, Montgomery County is more affordable than Sharkey County by roughly 10% ($682/mo vs $622/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Montgomery County
Rent Burden
18.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,051
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Montgomery County
Median home value is $110,700. Estimated monthly cost: $884 vs. your max of $1,051.
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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