Cost of Living in Lincoln County, North Carolina
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lincoln County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Lincoln County ranks #2,037 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 35%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lincoln County, North Carolina
Lincoln leads the state in affordability balance
Lincoln renters spend just 14.9% of income on housing—well below the national median of 18.6%—while earning a median household income of $78,490 that exceeds the national average of $74,755. This rare combination creates one of the nation's most favorable affordability environments.
Lincoln ranks among the state's best values
Lincoln's 14.9% rent-to-income ratio places it near the top of North Carolina's most affordable counties, beating the state average of 18.6% by a substantial margin. Strong incomes combined with moderate $977 rents deliver financial flexibility across the county.
Lincoln outaffordability most nearby counties decisively
Lincoln's 14.9% rent-to-income ratio beats all nearby competitors except Johnston County (15.1%), placing it second-best in the region. The combination of good incomes and reasonable rents makes Lincoln one of the region's safest housing markets.
Strong income supports both housing options
Lincoln renters pay $977 monthly while homeowners pay $1,023 on a median income of $78,490, with median home values of $279,500 remaining accessible. Both housing options consume well under 20% of income, allowing residents substantial financial latitude.
Lincoln delivers prosperity with affordability
If you want to relocate somewhere that balances affordable housing with strong incomes, Lincoln County ranks among your best North Carolina options. The combination of reasonable rents, manageable home prices, and solid job-market wages makes it an ideal choice for families prioritizing financial stability.
Cost of Living Advisory: Lincoln County
Affordability Verdict
Lincoln County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $977/month — about 14.9% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Lincoln County pay $977/month on average, compared to $1,023/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 4%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $39,080/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $43,843/year. With a median household income of $78,490, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Lincoln County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Lincoln County sits 6% more expensive than Nash County ($924/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lincoln County
Rent Burden
14.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,831
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.6%
of gross income
The median home in Lincoln County may be a stretch
Median home value is $279,500. Estimated monthly cost: $2,231 vs. your max of $1,831.
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 Lincoln County, North Carolina?
What is the median rent in Lincoln County?
Is Lincoln County affordable?
How does Lincoln County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Lincoln County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Lincoln County, North Carolina? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Lincoln 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.