Cost of Living in Sharkey County, Mississippi
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Sharkey County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Sharkey County, Mississippi
Sharkey balances low rent with tight income
Sharkey County residents spend 20.9% of income on rent, slightly above Mississippi's 19.6% average despite rock-bottom $622 monthly payments. The county's median household income of $35,741 ranks among the state's lowest, making even affordable rents feel substantial relative to earning power.
Affordable rent, challenging income dynamics
Sharkey County's $622 median rent nearly matches Prentiss County's state-leading affordability, but Sharkey's 20.9% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Mississippi's 19.6% average due to lower household incomes. The county offers cheap housing in the context of limited economic opportunity.
Cheap rent, tightest income constraints
Sharkey's $622 rent rivals Prentiss County's lowest-in-region pricing, yet Sharkey's $35,741 median income trails all peers except Quitman County at $32,131. This income disadvantage means Sharkey's cheap rents don't necessarily translate to affordability advantages.
Homeownership costs exceed renting
Uniquely among these counties, Sharkey homeowners spend $716 monthly—$94 more than renters at $622—suggesting an unusual ownership cost structure. Despite low rents, housing (both options) consumes 20.9% of the $35,741 median income, leaving limited flexibility for household emergencies or savings.
Low costs can't overcome wage gaps
While Sharkey offers the cheapest or near-cheapest rents, the county's income constraints rival Quitman's challenges. Seeking employment or relocation to higher-wage counties like Rankin, Pontotoc, or Simpson will have far greater financial impact than finding marginally cheaper housing.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Sharkey County
Rent Burden
20.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$834
per month
Owner Cost Burden
24.0%
of gross income
The median home in Sharkey County may be a stretch
Median home value is $108,000. Estimated monthly cost: $862 vs. your max of $834.
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.