Cost of Living in Hamblen County, Tennessee
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Hamblen County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Hamblen County ranks #1,952 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 38%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Hamblen County, Tennessee
Hamblen County Exceeds National Housing Burden
Hamblen County's 19.1% rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds the national average, placing renters in a tighter financial position than typical American households. With a median household income of $52,794 and $838 monthly rent, housing demands a notably larger income share.
Hamblen County Among Less Affordable Areas
At 19.1%, Hamblen County's rent-to-income ratio substantially exceeds Tennessee's 17.6% state average, ranking among the state's less affordable counties. Renters pay only $22 less than the state median rent, but earn well below state median income, creating disproportionate housing pressure.
Highest Rent Burden in This Region
Hamblen County's 19.1% rent-to-income ratio is the highest among comparable counties, with its $838 rent second-highest only to Franklin County's $863. This combination of high rent and lower median income ($52,794) creates the region's most strained affordability.
Hamblen County Housing Cost Reality
Hamblen County renters dedicate 19.1% of their $52,794 median income to $838 monthly housing, squeezing other budget categories significantly. Homeowners similarly face 17.6% of income going to $731 monthly costs, reflecting challenging affordability across both renter and owner households.
Hamblen County Requires Strong Income Planning
If relocating to Hamblen County, ensure your personal income exceeds the $52,794 county median—housing affordability here depends critically on earning power. Compare its $838 rent and $188,800 median home values against more affordable rural alternatives before committing.
Cost of Living Advisory: Hamblen County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Hamblen County is affordable. The median rent is $838/month against a median household income of $52,794, putting rent at 19.0% of income.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Hamblen County is $838/month, while owner costs run $731/month. Owning saves approximately $107/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $33,520/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $31,329/year. With a median household income of $52,794, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Hamblen County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Cocke County where rent averages $787/month, Hamblen County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Hamblen County
Rent Burden
19.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,232
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.6%
of gross income
The median home in Hamblen County may be a stretch
Median home value is $188,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,507 vs. your max of $1,232.
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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