Cost of Living in Montgomery County, Tennessee
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Montgomery County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Montgomery County ranks #2,731 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 13%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Montgomery County, Tennessee
Montgomery renters stretch furthest in region
Montgomery County renters spend 20.2% of their income on housing—the highest ratio in this eight-county cluster and well above the national average. Despite a median household income of $72,365 near the national average, aggressive housing demand drives costs upward.
Montgomery ranks among Tennessee's priciest counties
Montgomery County's 20.2% rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds Tennessee's state average of 17.6%, placing it among the state's least affordable counties. The median rent of $1,219 is 42% above the state median, driven by Clarksville's regional growth and military presence.
Most expensive rents and ownership costs regionally
Montgomery's $1,219 median rent tops every county in this comparison, with ownership costs of $1,304 monthly the highest as well. The median home value of $248,300 reflects strong appreciation tied to Fort Campbell's proximity and regional development.
Highest housing costs consume largest income share
Renters pay $1,219 and owners $1,304 monthly from a median household income of $72,365, combining for roughly 35% of household income. This split shows Montgomery's housing market running hotter than any regional peer, with both renters and owners paying premium prices.
Montgomery suits those with higher incomes and growth plans
Montgomery County's elevated housing costs reflect its appeal as a growing regional hub near Fort Campbell and Clarksville. If you prioritize affordability, compare lower-cost alternatives like Monroe, McMinn, or Marshall counties; if growth matters more than price, Montgomery delivers.
Cost of Living Advisory: Montgomery County
Affordability Verdict
Montgomery County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,219/month — about 20.2% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Montgomery County is $1,219/month, while owner costs run $1,304/month. Renting saves approximately $85/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $48,760/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $55,886/year. With a median household income of $72,365, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Montgomery County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Montgomery County sits 4% less expensive than Cheatham County ($1,274/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Montgomery County
Rent Burden
20.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,689
per month
Owner Cost Burden
21.6%
of gross income
The median home in Montgomery County may be a stretch
Median home value is $248,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,982 vs. your max of $1,689.
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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