Cost of Living in Benton County, Tennessee
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Benton County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Benton County ranks #1,180 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 38%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Benton County, Tennessee
Rural county stretches low incomes tight
Benton County's 18.8% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the national median, with residents earning a median of just $50,435—32% below the US average of $74,755. This gap means renters in Benton face greater affordability strain despite modest absolute rent levels.
Above-average rent burden statewide
Benton's rent-to-income ratio of 18.8% ranks among the higher burden counties in Tennessee, exceeding the state average of 17.6% by 1.2 percentage points. Though the $788 median rent is below the state average, the lower incomes in this rural county make every dollar count more.
Cheapest rents in the region
Benton's $788 median rent is the most affordable in its peer group, beating Campbell County ($715 lower rate but different income base) and significantly undershooting Anderson ($960). However, Benton's median home value of $123,400 is the lowest across comparable counties, reflecting a genuinely rural market.
Low incomes make modest rents stretch far
Benton renters spend 18.8% of their $50,435 income on $788 rent—nearly one in five dollars. Mortgage costs average $569, suggesting homeownership remains the most attainable path for stability in this low-income county.
Seek this county only with rural income plans
Benton's ultra-low housing costs ($788 rent, $123,400 homes) appeal to remote workers or retirees with income independent of local jobs. Urban professionals considering relocation should verify telework viability, as the county's median income of $50,435 signals limited local wage growth.
Cost of Living Advisory: Benton County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Benton County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $788/month in gross rent, with 26.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Benton County is $788/month, while owner costs run $569/month. Owning saves approximately $219/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,520/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $24,386/year. With a median household income of $50,435, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Benton County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Benton County sits 7% more expensive than Claiborne County ($736/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Benton County
Rent Burden
18.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,177
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Benton County
Median home value is $123,400. Estimated monthly cost: $985 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 Benton County, Tennessee?
What is the median rent in Benton County?
Is Benton County affordable?
How does Benton County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Benton County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Benton County, Tennessee? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Benton 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.