Cost of Living in Macon County, Tennessee
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Macon County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Macon County ranks #1,580 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 50%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Macon County, Tennessee
Macon balances modest income with fair housing costs
Macon County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.2% sits just below Tennessee's 17.6% state average and slightly better than the national norm for rural counties. With a median household income of $56,269 and rent of $805 monthly, residents maintain decent affordability despite earnings well below the national average of $74,755.
Near-average affordability in Tennessee context
Macon ranks slightly above the state average for housing affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio of 17.2% that undercuts the 17.6% benchmark. The county's median rent of $805 runs just $55 below the state average, reflecting its position as a solid middle-tier option.
Mid-range pricing in diverse county cluster
Macon's $805 rent falls between the cheaper rural north ($735) and the wealthier Loudon County ($995), positioning it as the economic bridge in this sample. The median home value of $211,200 ties Lincoln County, suggesting comparable property strength and investment potential.
Rents and mortgages track closely together
Renters pay $805 monthly while homeowners spend $789—nearly equivalent costs that consume 17.2% and 16.8% of the $56,269 median income. This balanced approach suggests stable property values and predictable housing markets for both renters and owners.
Solid middle ground for cautious relocators
Macon County offers reliable affordability between rural bargains and prosperous markets, making it a sensible choice for those seeking stability without extremes. The similar rent and ownership costs indicate a mature housing market with minimal surprises.
Cost of Living Advisory: Macon County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Macon County is affordable. The median rent is $805/month against a median household income of $56,269, putting rent at 17.2% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $805/month rent versus $789/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $16/month cheaper — a 2% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $33,814/year. With a median household income of $56,269, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Macon County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Macon County sits 7% less expensive than Franklin County ($863/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Macon County
Rent Burden
17.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,313
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.8%
of gross income
The median home in Macon County may be a stretch
Median home value is $211,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,686 vs. your max of $1,313.
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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