Cost of Living in Rhea County, Tennessee
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Rhea County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Rhea County, Tennessee
Rhea County hovers near Tennessee's affordability baseline
Rhea County's 16.4% rent-to-income ratio sits below Tennessee's state average of 17.6%, indicating relatively favorable rental affordability despite a median household income of $58,133. At $796 monthly rent, Rhea renters dedicate a modest share of earnings to housing compared to state and national benchmarks.
Better-than-average affordability within Tennessee
Rhea County ranks in the upper tier of Tennessee counties for rental affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio meaningfully below the state average. The county's above-median household income combined with moderate rents creates accessible housing conditions for renters.
Mid-range rental costs with solid incomes
Rhea County's $796 median rent sits between Morgan County ($742) and Putnam County ($881), while its median household income of $58,133 ranks among the region's stronger earners. The county offers balanced affordability relative to surrounding East-Central Tennessee peers.
Rent takes 16.4% of median income
Rhea County renters spend $796 monthly—16.4% of their median household income of $58,133—positioning housing costs comfortably below state averages. Homeowners invest $652 monthly on ownership costs for homes valued at $178,500, reflecting a healthy balance between housing costs and income.
Rhea County balances value and community
Families considering relocation should evaluate Rhea County as a solid middle-ground option, offering above-average local incomes and below-average rent burdens compared to Tennessee peers. The county delivers genuine affordability advantages without sacrificing the housing quality found in pricier markets.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Rhea County
Rent Burden
16.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,356
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.5%
of gross income
The median home in Rhea County may be a stretch
Median home value is $178,500. Estimated monthly cost: $1,425 vs. your max of $1,356.
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.