Cost of Living in Macon County, North Carolina
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Macon County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Macon County, North Carolina
Macon's affordability slightly beats the nation
Macon renters spend 17.8% of income on housing, modestly below the national median of 18.6%, thanks to rents of just $791 monthly. With a median household income of $53,298 well below the national average of $74,755, residents manage decent affordability despite income constraints.
Macon ranks above average for North Carolina
Macon's 17.8% rent-to-income ratio beats the state average of 18.6%, placing it solidly in North Carolina's more affordable half despite below-average incomes. Low rents of $791 are the primary driver of this relative advantage.
Macon delivers solid affordability regionally
Macon's 17.8% rent-to-income ratio outperforms Jackson County (19.2%) and Lee County (18.3%), while slightly trailing Jones County (15.6%) and Lincoln County (14.9%). Its $791 rent makes it one of the region's cheaper options.
Low income balanced by low rents
Macon renters pay $791 monthly while homeowners pay $693, figures well below state averages on a median income of $53,298. These modest costs mean housing claims roughly 18% of typical budgets—manageable even for residents with limited incomes.
Macon appeals to budget-conscious relocators
If you're seeking affordable mountain living with low housing costs, Macon delivers: $791 rents and $229,000 median home values offer genuine value on modest incomes. The tradeoff is limited high-wage job availability, so this works best for remote workers or retirees seeking affordability.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Macon County
Rent Burden
17.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,244
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.6%
of gross income
The median home in Macon County may be a stretch
Median home value is $229,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,828 vs. your max of $1,244.
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.