Cost of Living in Camden County, North Carolina
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Camden County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Camden County ranks #2,513 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 20%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Camden County, North Carolina
Camden balances high income with affordability
Camden County renters spend 16.7% of their income on rent—well below the national average and a strong affordability indicator. With a median household income of $87,781—nearly 18% above the national median—Camden delivers both prosperity and housing accessibility.
Top-tier affordability with strong earnings
Camden's 16.7% rent-to-income ratio beats North Carolina's 18.6% state average, while its $87,781 median income is the second-highest among the eight counties. This pairing signals a healthy, balanced housing market with solid household purchasing power.
Best-positioned coastal county
Camden's $87,781 median income exceeds nearby Carteret County ($70,235) and Brunswick County ($74,034), yet its rent-to-income ratio of 16.7% is more favorable than both. The $1,220 median rent reflects coastal positioning while remaining accessible to local earners.
High income cushions ownership costs
Camden renters pay $1,220 monthly while homeowners face $1,508—notably high absolute costs, yet absorbed by the $87,781 median income. Housing consumes just 17% of typical household budgets, leaving ample resources for other needs.
Camden: coastal living at fair cost
Consider Camden if you're seeking coastal North Carolina living with strong household incomes and reasonable affordability—median rent of $1,220 on an $87,781 average income is a favorable trade-off. The county attracts affluent professionals and retirees who value beach access and stable finances.
Cost of Living Advisory: Camden County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Camden County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,220/month in gross rent, with 23.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Camden County pay $1,220/month on average, compared to $1,508/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 19%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $48,800/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $64,629/year. With a median household income of $87,781, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in Camden County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within North Carolina, Camden County is less affordable than Buncombe County by roughly 5% ($1,220/mo vs $1,281/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Camden County
Rent Burden
16.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,048
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.6%
of gross income
The median home in Camden County may be a stretch
Median home value is $289,800. Estimated monthly cost: $2,314 vs. your max of $2,048.
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 Camden County, North Carolina?
What is the median rent in Camden County?
Is Camden County affordable?
How does Camden County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Camden County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Camden County, North Carolina? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Camden 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.