Cost of Living in Alleghany County, North Carolina
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Alleghany County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Alleghany County, North Carolina
Alleghany's affordability crisis hits hardest
Alleghany County's rent-to-income ratio of 20.5% exceeds the national average by 1.9 percentage points, but the real strain lies beneath: median household income is just $44,272, nearly $30,500 below the national median. This lowest-income profile in our county group means Alleghany residents face disproportionate housing burden despite moderate rents.
Alleghany struggles among state peers
At 20.5%, Alleghany's rent-to-income ratio ranks in the bottom tier of North Carolina counties, exceeding the state average of 18.6% by a concerning margin. The county's median income of $44,272 is among the lowest statewide, amplifying the affordability challenge.
Alleghany and Anson: the affordability struggle
Alleghany's $755 monthly rent is slightly lower than Anson County ($849), but both counties share the region's lowest household incomes—$44,272 and $44,245 respectively. Neither county exceeds a 23% rent-to-income ratio, yet both place enormous strain on residents relative to neighboring counties with higher earnings.
Over a fifth of income goes to rent
Alleghany renters spend $755/month on a $44,272 annual income, consuming 20.5% of their earnings before utilities, food, or other costs. Homeowners face similar pressure at $759/month, leaving little margin for savings or emergencies in households with limited income cushion.
Alleghany requires strategic financial planning
If relocating to Alleghany, understand that low rents ($755) are offset by the lowest median income in this county group, making it essential to secure stable, higher-wage employment first. Compare this profile against Alexander or Ashe counties where incomes are stronger relative to housing costs.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Alleghany County
Rent Burden
20.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,033
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.6%
of gross income
The median home in Alleghany County may be a stretch
Median home value is $199,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,589 vs. your max of $1,033.
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.