Cost of Living in Lawrence County, Tennessee
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lawrence County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Lawrence County ranks #1,217 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 39%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lawrence County, Tennessee
Lawrence offers solid affordability below national standard
With a rent-to-income ratio of 16.6%, Lawrence County beats both the national average and Tennessee's 17.6% state benchmark—a rare advantage for a rural county. Residents earning $53,233 annually spend just $736 monthly on rent, leaving more income for savings and essentials than national averages suggest.
Best-in-class affordability statewide
Lawrence ranks among Tennessee's most affordable counties, with a rent-to-income ratio that undercuts the state average by a full percentage point. This advantage reflects both modest housing costs and stable local incomes relative to the broader state picture.
Slightly pricier but more spacious than Lauderdale
Lawrence's $736 rent runs $7 higher than Lauderdale County to the north but $124 below the state average, positioning it as the sweet spot in the regional affordability tier. Homes here value at $176,700—$54,600 more than Lauderdale—suggesting better property investment potential.
Owner costs match rental affordability
Renters spend $736 monthly while homeowners pay $695—a rare reversal where ownership costs less than renting. This $41 monthly savings for owners makes Lawrence attractive for those ready to build equity on modest incomes of $53,233.
Smart choice for renters ready to own
Lawrence County's below-average rent-to-income ratio combined with lower ownership costs creates an ideal transition point for renters seeking homeownership. The higher median home value ($176,700) signals solid property appreciation potential compared to cheaper rural neighbors.
Cost of Living Advisory: Lawrence County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Lawrence County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $736/month in gross rent, with 27.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Lawrence County pay $736/month on average, compared to $695/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 6%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $29,786/year. With a median household income of $53,233, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Lawrence County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Tennessee, Lawrence County is less affordable than Cocke County by roughly 6% ($736/mo vs $787/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lawrence County
Rent Burden
16.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,242
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.7%
of gross income
The median home in Lawrence County may be a stretch
Median home value is $176,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,411 vs. your max of $1,242.
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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