Cost of Living in Bladen County, North Carolina
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Bladen County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Bladen County ranks #2,608 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 17%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Bladen County, North Carolina
Bladen's rent burden tops national average
Bladen County renters spend 20.3% of their income on rent, outpacing the national norm by over 2 percentage points. With a median household income of $44,528—about 40% below the U.S. average of $74,755—housing costs squeeze household budgets more tightly here than across the country.
Above average strain in North Carolina
Bladen's rent-to-income ratio of 20.3% ranks above North Carolina's state average of 18.6%, placing the county in the less affordable tier. The median rent of $752 falls well below the state average of $938, but local incomes are also substantially lower, creating an affordability mismatch.
More affordable than eastern peers
Bladen's $752 monthly rent is significantly cheaper than neighboring Brunswick County ($1,267) and Pender County areas, but the county's lower median income means renters still feel the strain more acutely. Burke County to the west offers comparable affordability with a 17.4% rent-to-income ratio.
Renters and owners both strained
Bladen renters pay $752 monthly while homeowners carry mortgage costs of $719—nearly identical burdens. Together with a median income of $44,528, housing consumes over one-fifth of household income for most residents.
Consider Bladen for rural affordability
If you're seeking lower absolute housing costs in rural North Carolina, Bladen delivers: expect median rent around $752 and home values near $126,000. However, weigh that against limited local income opportunities and ensure your job prospects can sustain your household budget.
Cost of Living Advisory: Bladen County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Bladen County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $752/month in gross rent, with 29.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Bladen County pay $752/month on average, compared to $719/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 4%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,080/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $30,814/year. With a median household income of $44,528, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Bladen County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Burke County where rent averages $805/month, Bladen County is approximately 7% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Bladen County
Rent Burden
20.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,039
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Bladen County
Median home value is $125,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,004 vs. your max of $1,039.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Bladen County, North Carolina?
What is the median rent in Bladen County?
Is Bladen County affordable?
How does Bladen County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Bladen County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Bladen County, North Carolina? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Bladen County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.