Cost of Living in Wilson County, North Carolina
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Wilson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Wilson County, North Carolina
Wilson's housing costs strain budgets
Wilson County's rent-to-income ratio of 21.4% pushes above the national comfort zone, meaning renters here dedicate significantly more income to housing than the typical American household. At $915/month in median rent against a $51,381 household income, Wilson renters face tighter affordability than peers in stronger economies.
Above-average housing pressure in NC
Wilson County's 21.4% rent-to-income ratio exceeds North Carolina's average of 18.6%, positioning it among the state's less affordable counties for renters. Median rent of $915/month reflects regional cost pressures that outpace typical state housing rates.
Wilson carries the highest rent burden
Wilson County renters pay the highest median rent in this comparison—$915/month—while also facing the steepest rent-to-income ratio at 21.4%. Only Yadkin County approaches Wilson's median home value of $171,800, but with significantly better affordability metrics.
Housing consumes larger income share
Wilson County households allocate $915 monthly for rent or $948 for mortgage payments against a $51,381 annual median income ($4,282/month). Renters dedicate 21.4% of income to housing, while homeowners commit 22.2%—both above the 30% affordability threshold that signals strain.
Wilson: explore alternatives nearby
Wilson County renters and homebuyers facing affordability pressure should compare neighboring Wilkes County (17% rent ratio) and Yadkin County (14.6% rent ratio) for potentially better housing value. With strategic location choices, families in this region can access similar job markets with substantially lower housing costs.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Wilson County
Rent Burden
21.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,199
per month
Owner Cost Burden
22.1%
of gross income
The median home in Wilson County may be a stretch
Median home value is $171,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,372 vs. your max of $1,199.
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.