Cost of Living in Scotland County, North Carolina
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Scotland County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Scotland County ranks #2,729 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 13%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Scotland County, North Carolina
Scotland County faces affordability pressure
At 21.1%, Scotland County's rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds both the state average of 18.6% and typical national benchmarks, indicating that renters here spend a larger share of earnings on housing. On a median household income of just $43,500, the $766 monthly rent burden is notably heavy.
Among NC's least affordable counties
Scotland County's 21.1% rent-to-income ratio ranks it as one of North Carolina's least affordable housing markets. The gap between this ratio and the state average of 18.6% reflects lower incomes paired with moderate housing costs—a challenging combination.
Scotland renters face highest burden
While Scotland's rent of $766/month is near Rutherford ($748), the key difference is income: Scotland's $43,500 median household income is significantly lower than Rutherford's $49,771, making the same rent consume a much larger income share. Monthly owner costs of $724 are also among the region's highest.
Rent swallows over one-fifth of pay
The typical Scotland renter dedicates 21.1% of their $43,500 annual income to $766/month in gross rent—a pinched situation. Even homeownership at $724/month (14.2% of income) represents a significant commitment on this county's lower income levels.
Scotland: beautiful but budget-tight
Scotland County offers lower absolute rent prices but faces income-affordability challenges that should give relocators pause. If you're moving here, ensure your income is above the $43,500 median to avoid housing cost strain.
Cost of Living Advisory: Scotland County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Scotland County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $766/month in gross rent, with 30.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Scotland County is $766/month, while owner costs run $724/month. Owning saves approximately $42/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,640/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $31,029/year. With a median household income of $43,500, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Scotland County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Swain County where rent averages $715/month, Scotland County is approximately 7% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Scotland County
Rent Burden
21.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,015
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Scotland County
Median home value is $109,900. Estimated monthly cost: $877 vs. your max of $1,015.
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 Scotland County, North Carolina?
What is the median rent in Scotland County?
Is Scotland County affordable?
How does Scotland County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Scotland County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Scotland County, North Carolina? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Scotland 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.