Cost of Living in Wilkes County, North Carolina
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Wilkes County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Wilkes County ranks #1,715 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 45%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Wilkes County, North Carolina
Wilkes beats national affordability
Wilkes County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.0% sits comfortably below the national benchmark, meaning renters here spend less of their paychecks on housing than typical American households. With a median household income of $50,438 compared to the national median of $74,755, Wilkes residents earn less but pay proportionally lower housing costs, creating genuine affordability.
Among North Carolina's most affordable
At 17.0%, Wilkes County's rent-to-income ratio outperforms the state average of 18.6%, ranking it as one of North Carolina's most housing-affordable counties. This advantage stems from both reasonable rent ($715/month versus the state average of $938) and a cost of living that aligns with local incomes.
Wilkes renters win the region
Wilkes County offers the cheapest rent in this four-county comparison at $715/month, undercut only by Yadkin County's $734. Homeowners here also benefit, with a median owner cost of $568/month—the lowest among these peers—making Wilkes the region's most accessible county for both renters and buyers.
Housing costs as a percent of income
Wilkes County households spend roughly $715 monthly on rent or $568 on mortgage payments against a median income of $50,438 annually ($4,203/month). This leaves renters with 17% of income dedicated to housing and owners with just 13.5%, freeing up money for other essentials.
Relocating? Wilkes deserves consideration
If affordability is your priority, Wilkes County delivers lower rent and owner costs than state and national averages without sacrificing community infrastructure. Compare Wilkes to neighboring Wilson and Yadkin counties to find your ideal balance of cost, income opportunity, and lifestyle.
Cost of Living Advisory: Wilkes County
Affordability Verdict
Wilkes County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $715/month representing approximately 17.0% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 26.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Wilkes County pay $715/month on average, compared to $568/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 21%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $28,600/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $24,343/year. With a median household income of $50,438, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Wilkes County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Chowan County where rent averages $766/month, Wilkes County is approximately 7% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Wilkes County
Rent Burden
17.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,177
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.5%
of gross income
The median home in Wilkes County may be a stretch
Median home value is $161,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,289 vs. your max of $1,177.
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 Wilkes County, North Carolina?
What is the median rent in Wilkes County?
Is Wilkes County affordable?
How does Wilkes County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Wilkes County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Wilkes County, North Carolina? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Wilkes 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.