Cost of Living in Oktibbeha County, Mississippi
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Oktibbeha County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Oktibbeha County, Mississippi
Oktibbeha's rental costs stand out
Oktibbeha County's rent-to-income ratio of 24.1% significantly exceeds the national average, with renters paying a notably larger share of income toward housing. The median household income of $43,482 is well below the U.S. median, yet rents at $873 monthly are the highest in this eight-county comparison.
Highest rent burden in Mississippi comparison
At 24.1%, Oktibbeha's rent-to-income ratio substantially exceeds Mississippi's state average of 19.6%, making it the least affordable for renters in this group. The median rent of $873 towers $91 above the state median of $782, driven partly by the presence of Mississippi State University.
Starkville campus effect raises rents
Oktibbeha's $873 median rent far exceeds all neighboring counties: Montgomery ($682), Newton ($722), and Neshoba ($759) are all substantially cheaper. The university presence drives rental demand and prices upward, creating affordability challenges for non-student residents with modest incomes.
College town premium erodes affordability
Households earn just $43,482 annually but pay $873 in median rent—24.1% of income, well above the 30% threshold and among the worst ratios here. Homeowners face similar pressure at $872 monthly, and the median home value of $219,500 is more than double neighboring counties, reflecting university-driven demand.
Oktibbeha: university draw, affordability trade-off
Oktibbeha offers Mississippi State's economic ecosystem and cultural amenities, but renters pay the price: $873 monthly rents consume 24.1% of the median income of $43,482. If university proximity matters, Oktibbeha is worth the cost; otherwise, nearby Montgomery, Newton, or Neshoba offer significantly better affordability ratios.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Oktibbeha County
Rent Burden
24.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,015
per month
Owner Cost Burden
24.1%
of gross income
The median home in Oktibbeha County may be a stretch
Median home value is $219,500. Estimated monthly cost: $1,752 vs. your max of $1,015.
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.