Cost of Living in Monroe County, Tennessee
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Monroe County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Monroe County, Tennessee
Monroe delivers best affordability in the region
Monroe County renters spend just 14.8% of their income on housing—the lowest ratio in this eight-county cluster and well below the national average. Despite a median household income of $56,648 below national norms, residents enjoy exceptional housing value.
Monroe ranks among Tennessee's most affordable counties
Monroe County's 14.8% rent-to-income ratio places it in Tennessee's affordability top tier, far outpacing the state average of 17.6%. The median rent of $699 is the lowest among regional peers and 19% below the state median of $860.
Cheapest rents in the entire regional comparison
Monroe's $699 median rent undercuts even McNairy County's $706 and McMinn's $792, making it the rental bargain of the region. Median home values of $199,700 remain accessible, offering both renters and buyers strong value propositions.
Renters and owners both claim Tennessee value wins
Renters pay $699 and owners $629 monthly from a median household income of $56,648, the lowest per-capita income in this cluster. Yet both groups keep housing costs under 15% of income—a remarkable affordability achievement.
Monroe is the region's affordability winner
Whether renting or buying, Monroe County delivers the lowest housing costs and best affordability ratios in this entire regional comparison. If you're relocating on a tight budget, Monroe outperforms every neighboring county on price and value metrics.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Monroe County
Rent Burden
14.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,322
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.3%
of gross income
The median home in Monroe County may be a stretch
Median home value is $199,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,594 vs. your max of $1,322.
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.