Cost of Living in Fayette County, Tennessee
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Fayette County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Fayette County, Tennessee
Fayette County's wealth powers housing relief
Fayette County's 12.5% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest among all comparison counties, delivering exceptional housing affordability fueled by the state's highest median household income of $84,764. At $883 monthly rent against this strong earning base, Fayette residents enjoy the greatest financial breathing room for non-housing expenses.
Fayette leads Tennessee on housing relief
Fayette's 12.5% rent-to-income ratio significantly outperforms Tennessee's 17.6% state average, making it the state's most affordable county by this measure. The $883 median rent sits modestly above the state average of $860, but Fayette's $84,764 median income—the state's highest—transforms this into genuine relief.
Fayette towers above peers on income
Fayette's $883 rent sits mid-range among its cluster, but its $84,764 median income dwarfs all comparables—Dickson ($73,223), Crockett ($59,049), and Dyer ($54,973). This income advantage makes Fayette's slightly higher nominal rent feel like a bargain proportionally.
Fayette's income covers housing easily
Renters dedicate $883 monthly while owners pay $1,042 for mortgages, both consuming just 12-15% of the $84,764 median household income—leaving substantial room for savings and discretionary spending. The median home value of $316,000 sits within comfortable reach for dual-income households or single earners at or above county median.
Fayette suits high-earning relocators
Relocating to Fayette makes sense for professionals earning $84,000+ seeking Tennessee's best housing affordability ratio alongside strong income stability. Compare Fayette's 12.5% rent-to-income ratio against stressed Davidson (23.6%) or income-poor Decatur (18.6%) to confirm it represents Tennessee's most financially sustainable housing market.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Fayette County
Rent Burden
12.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,978
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.8%
of gross income
The median home in Fayette County may be a stretch
Median home value is $316,000. Estimated monthly cost: $2,523 vs. your max of $1,978.
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.