Cost of Living in Bedford County, Tennessee
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Bedford County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Bedford County ranks #2,481 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 21%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Bedford County, Tennessee
Bedford keeps housing costs near national norms
Bedford County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.7% sits just slightly above the national median, making it one of Tennessee's more balanced housing markets. Yet with a median household income of $62,197—16% below the national $74,755—residents still stretch further to afford similar rents.
Slightly better than state average
Bedford's 17.7% rent-to-income ratio edges below Tennessee's 17.6% average, offering modest relief compared to many other counties in the state. The $917 median rent is also competitive—just 7% above the state's $860 average.
Moderate rents, premium home prices
Bedford's $917 rent is comparable to nearby Anderson County ($960) and significantly lower than Blount County ($1,042), but its median home value of $255,300 is notably higher, suggesting a stronger ownership market. This makes Bedford attractive for buyers seeking moderate rental options with appreciating property values.
Homeownership cheaper than renting here
At $917 monthly, rent consumes 17.7% of income, while mortgage costs average $1,013—counterintuitively higher than rent. This apparent gap suggests many homeowners carry larger loans relative to incomes, possibly reflecting higher home values and longer mortgage terms.
Renters find value; buyers should plan ahead
If you rent, Bedford offers reasonable affordability at $917 per month, with rent-to-income costs near the state average. Prospective homebuyers should note the premium $255,300 median home value and consider their long-term financial readiness before relocating here.
Cost of Living Advisory: Bedford County
Affordability Verdict
Bedford County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $917/month representing approximately 17.7% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 28.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $917/month rent versus $1,013/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $96/month cheaper — a 9% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $43,414/year. With a median household income of $62,197, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Bedford County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Tennessee, Bedford County is more affordable than Franklin County by roughly 6% ($917/mo vs $863/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Bedford County
Rent Burden
17.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,451
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.5%
of gross income
The median home in Bedford County may be a stretch
Median home value is $255,300. Estimated monthly cost: $2,038 vs. your max of $1,451.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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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
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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.
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