Cost of Living in Carroll County, Tennessee
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Carroll County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Carroll County ranks #1,215 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 39%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Carroll County, Tennessee
Rent takes 18% of Carroll income
Carroll County renters spend 18.0% of household income on rent, slightly above the national median of about 15%. This puts the county in modest territory—residents here dedicate a proportionally larger share to housing than the typical American, but remain below the danger zone of 30% that signals cost-of-living stress.
Slightly tighter than Tennessee average
At 18.0%, Carroll's rent-to-income ratio exceeds Tennessee's state average of 17.6%, marking it as marginally less affordable than peers statewide. The county's median rent of $757 runs nearly $100 below the state average of $860, but incomes here are also lower, explaining the slightly worse affordability picture.
Among the most affordable in region
Carroll County's $757 median rent undercuts nearby Coffee County ($885) and Cocke County ($787), making it one of the most budget-friendly rentals in this part of Tennessee. Owner costs tell a similar story: at $587/month, Carroll's mortgage burden is lower than most neighbors, appealing to would-be homebuyers on modest incomes.
Renters and owners find balance
The typical Carroll County household earns $50,391 annually and pays $757 in monthly rent or $587 for ownership costs. Whether renting or buying, housing consumes roughly 14–18% of gross income—sustainable for most families, though those earning closer to minimum wage will feel the pinch more acutely.
Consider Carroll for value
If you're relocating to Tennessee and prioritize affordability, Carroll County delivers below-state-average rents paired with median home values around $122,100. Compare it against Coffee County (higher rents) and nearby Nashville suburbs to find your sweet spot of cost and opportunity.
Cost of Living Advisory: Carroll County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Carroll County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $757/month in gross rent, with 26.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Carroll County pay $757/month on average, compared to $587/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 22%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,280/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $25,157/year. With a median household income of $50,391, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Carroll County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Tennessee, Carroll County is more affordable than McNairy County by roughly 7% ($757/mo vs $706/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Carroll County
Rent Burden
18.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,176
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Carroll County
Median home value is $122,100. Estimated monthly cost: $975 vs. your max of $1,176.
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 Carroll County, Tennessee?
What is the median rent in Carroll County?
Is Carroll County affordable?
How does Carroll County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Carroll County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Carroll County, Tennessee? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Carroll 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.