Cost of Living in Pontotoc County, Mississippi
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Pontotoc County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Pontotoc County ranks #2,279 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 28%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Pontotoc County, Mississippi
Pontotoc's affordable housing sweet spot
Pontotoc County residents spend just 19.3% of income on rent, nearly matching the national standard and beating Mississippi's 19.6% average. With a median household income of $52,741—well above many peers in the state—Pontotoc offers genuinely accessible housing relative to earning power.
Mississippi's middle ground for renters
Pontotoc ranks near the state average for rental affordability with its 19.3% rent-to-income ratio, virtually matching Mississippi's 19.6% statewide benchmark. This stability, combined with $848 monthly rent, positions Pontotoc as a balanced option for Mississippi renters seeking both affordability and economic opportunity.
Competitive with similar-sized counties
Pontotoc's $848 rent sits between Simpson County ($819) and Pike County ($879), while its median household income of $52,741 exceeds both neighbors. This income advantage makes Pontotoc's housing costs feel more manageable than counties with comparable rents but lower earnings.
Balanced rental and ownership costs
Pontotoc renters pay $848 monthly while homeowners spend $629, a 35% premium for renting that's typical nationwide. At $52,741 median income, housing consumes just 19.3% of household earnings, leaving room for savings and discretionary spending.
A stable choice for Mississippi movers
Pontotoc County offers reliable affordability without sacrificing economic prospects—its median income significantly exceeds many rural Mississippi counties. For those relocating within the state, Pontotoc delivers solid housing costs and stronger earning potential than alternatives like Pike or Quitman.
Cost of Living Advisory: Pontotoc County
Affordability Verdict
Pontotoc County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $848/month representing approximately 19.3% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 26.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Pontotoc County pay $848/month on average, compared to $629/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 26%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $33,920/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $26,957/year. With a median household income of $52,741, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Pontotoc County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Lowndes County where rent averages $909/month, Pontotoc County is approximately 7% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Pontotoc County
Rent Burden
19.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,231
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Pontotoc County
Median home value is $141,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,131 vs. your max of $1,231.
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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