Cost of Living in Pike County, Mississippi
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Pike County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Pike County ranks #2,699 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 14%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Pike County, Mississippi
Pike's housing cost squeeze
Pike County residents spend 25.4% of their income on rent, well above the national average where housing typically takes 30% or less—but the county's median household income of $41,578 is significantly lower than the national median of $74,755. This income-to-cost gap means Pike renters face tighter budgets than their national counterparts despite paying less in absolute dollars.
Least affordable county in Mississippi
Pike County ranks among Mississippi's least affordable places, with a rent-to-income ratio of 25.4% compared to the state average of 19.6%. At $879 per month, Pike's median rent also exceeds the statewide median of $782, creating a double burden for renters navigating a tight local market.
More expensive than surrounding counties
Pike's $879 monthly rent outpaces nearby Prentiss County ($620) and Simpson County ($819), though it remains cheaper than the more affluent Rankin County ($1,210). Among these peers, Pike stands out as having both higher rents and lower incomes, making it one of the region's least affordable housing markets.
Renting costs more than buying
Pike County renters spend $879 monthly versus homeowners at $618, meaning renters pay about 42% more despite owning less. With a median household income of $41,578, that rent consumes 25.4% of gross income—leaving less for food, healthcare, and other necessities.
Consider these alternatives nearby
If Pike County's affordability concerns you, Prentiss County offers significantly cheaper rent ($620/month) with a comparable income level, or Simpson County provides a middle ground at $819 with similar incomes. Even modest relocations within the region can meaningfully improve housing affordability and monthly cash flow.
Cost of Living Advisory: Pike County
Affordability Verdict
Pike County is moderately affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $879/month representing approximately 25.4% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 29.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Pike County is $879/month, while owner costs run $618/month. Owning saves approximately $261/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $35,160/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $26,486/year. With a median household income of $41,578, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Pike County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Mississippi, Pike County is more affordable than Grenada County by roughly 7% ($879/mo vs $823/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Pike County
Rent Burden
25.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$970
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Pike County
Median home value is $110,500. Estimated monthly cost: $882 vs. your max of $970.
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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