Cost of Living in Northampton County, North Carolina
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Northampton County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Northampton County ranks #2,091 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 33%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Northampton County, North Carolina
Northampton's bargain housing meets tight income
Northampton County achieves an impressive 18.8% rent-to-income ratio—nearly matching the national standard—despite having one of North Carolina's lowest median household incomes at $47,935, well below the national median of $74,755. This paradox reflects genuinely affordable rents ($749/month) in a county where wages lag significantly behind the national average.
Among North Carolina's most affordable rentals
Northampton County ranks among the state's most affordable by rent-to-income ratio at 18.8%, matching the state average of 18.6% despite a median rent of just $749—about 20% below the state median of $938. For budget-conscious renters, this county offers some of the most accessible housing in North Carolina.
Deepest discount in the eastern counties
Northampton's $749 median rent is the lowest among all eight surveyed counties, 44% cheaper than New Hanover and 18% below Pamlico County, the next-most affordable. This advantage comes with trade-offs: median income trails most neighbors, meaning the affordability gain depends on job availability.
Renting the cheapest way in the region
Northampton renters pay $749 monthly while homeowners face $736—an unusual reversal where owning slightly edges out renting on monthly costs for a $102,200 median home. At a $47,935 annual income, housing accounts for roughly 19% of earnings, leaving limited cushion for emergencies or savings.
Affordability here requires stable employment
Northampton delivers North Carolina's cheapest rents, making it ideal for remote workers or retirees with outside income. Local job seekers should research opportunities carefully, as the county's lower median income reflects limited wage growth compared to coastal and urban alternatives.
Cost of Living Advisory: Northampton County
Affordability Verdict
Northampton County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $749/month representing approximately 18.8% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 30.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $749/month rent versus $736/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $13/month cheaper — a 2% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,960/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $31,543/year. With a median household income of $47,935, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Northampton County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Northampton County sits 6% less expensive than Cherokee County ($800/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Northampton County
Rent Burden
18.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,118
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Northampton County
Median home value is $102,200. Estimated monthly cost: $816 vs. your max of $1,118.
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 Northampton County, North Carolina?
What is the median rent in Northampton County?
Is Northampton County affordable?
How does Northampton County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Northampton County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Northampton County, North Carolina? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Northampton 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.