Cost of Living in DeKalb County, Tennessee
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How DeKalb County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in DeKalb County, Tennessee
DeKalb faces above-average housing pressure
DeKalb County's 19.1% rent-to-income ratio exceeds both the national average and most Tennessee peers, signaling tighter affordability despite modest absolute rents. At $773 monthly rent against $48,484 median household income—well below the national $74,755—DeKalb residents sacrifice income for rural living, intensifying housing burdens.
DeKalb ranks below-average for Tennessee rents
DeKalb's 19.1% rent-to-income ratio sits above Tennessee's 17.6% state average, placing it among the state's more stretched counties. The $773 median rent falls below the state average of $860, yet the low median income of $48,484 pushes the affordability ratio upward.
DeKalb competes on low rents, not low income
DeKalb's $773 rent approximates Dyer County ($760) and sits above Decatur ($716), but DeKalb's $48,484 median income exceeds Decatur's $46,190. This combination produces DeKalb's above-average rent-to-income ratio—lower nominal rent cannot overcome income disadvantages.
DeKalb's housing consumes significant income share
Renters allocate $773 monthly while owners pay $799 for mortgages, both consuming roughly 19% of the $48,484 median household income. The median home value of $206,600 towers above what most county residents can afford without significant external assistance.
DeKalb offers modest rents but limited income
Considering DeKalb requires confidence in stable employment above the county's $48,484 median or significant savings reserves. Compare this county's 19.1% rent-to-income ratio against wealthier options like Dickson (15.9%) or Fayette (12.5%) to evaluate whether rural proximity justifies higher housing burden.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in DeKalb County
Rent Burden
19.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,131
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.8%
of gross income
The median home in DeKalb County may be a stretch
Median home value is $206,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,649 vs. your max of $1,131.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in DeKalb County, Tennessee?
What is the median rent in DeKalb County?
Is DeKalb County affordable?
How does DeKalb County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in DeKalb County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in DeKalb County, Tennessee? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in DeKalb 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.