Cost of Living in Guilford County, North Carolina
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Guilford County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Guilford County ranks #2,896 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 8%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Guilford County, North Carolina
Guilford rents eat 20% of income
Renters in Guilford County spend 20.1% of their median household income on rent—slightly above the national sweet spot of around 18%. With median rent at $1,108/month and median household income of $66,027, housing costs are manageable but tightening.
Middle-of-the-road affordability in NC
Guilford's 20.1% rent-to-income ratio sits above North Carolina's state average of 18.6%, placing the county in moderate territory across the state's 100 counties. Renters here pay $170 more per month than the state median of $938.
Cheaper than Henderson, pricier than Harnett
Guilford's median rent of $1,108 falls between Henderson County ($1,120) and Harnett County ($1,080), reflecting its position as a mid-sized urban center. All three counties cluster within a tight $40-range, suggesting regional consistency in rental markets.
Renters and owners both strained
Renters absorb $1,108/month while homeowners face $1,103/month in mortgage payments—remarkably similar burdens. With median home value at $234,900, Guilford offers balanced entry points for both renting and buying.
Guilford: urban perks, urban prices
If you're considering a move to Guilford, expect costs slightly above state averages—but you're gaining access to a Piedmont Triad job hub. Compare your income and remote work flexibility against that 20% rent-to-income threshold to make your call.
Cost of Living Advisory: Guilford County
Affordability Verdict
Guilford County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,108/month representing approximately 20.1% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 30.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Guilford County pay $1,108/month on average, compared to $1,103/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 0%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $44,320/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $47,271/year. With a median household income of $66,027, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Guilford County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within North Carolina, Guilford County is more affordable than Haywood County by roughly 5% ($1,108/mo vs $1,052/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Guilford County
Rent Burden
20.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,541
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.0%
of gross income
The median home in Guilford County may be a stretch
Median home value is $234,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,875 vs. your max of $1,541.
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 Guilford County, North Carolina?
What is the median rent in Guilford County?
Is Guilford County affordable?
How does Guilford County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Guilford County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Guilford County, North Carolina? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Guilford 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.