Cost of Living in Roane County, Tennessee
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Roane County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Roane County, Tennessee
Roane's rent stays well below national strain
At 13.9%, Roane County's rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national comfort threshold of 15%, meaning renters here spend a smaller share of earnings on housing than most Americans. The county's median household income of $66,218 falls just slightly below the national median of $74,755, yet residents pay substantially less for housing.
Roane ranks among Tennessee's most affordable
Roane County's 13.9% rent-to-income ratio beats Tennessee's state average of 17.6% by nearly 4 percentage points, placing it in the state's more affordable tier. With a median rent of $767, the county undercuts the state average of $860 by nearly $100 per month.
Roane offers genuine relief to renters
Compared to neighboring Sevier County's $1,013 monthly rent, Roane's $767 represents a meaningful $246 monthly savings for renters. Scott County to the west is the only close peer, though Scott's lower income levels ($42,679) make its cheaper rents less of a true advantage.
Housing takes modest bite from budgets
Roane residents spend roughly $767 on rent or $842 on mortgages against a median income of $66,218 annually—leaving substantial room in household budgets for other expenses. Combined renter and owner costs average about 16% of gross income, well within affordability guidelines.
Roane County welcomes budget-conscious renters
If you're relocating from higher-cost regions, Roane County offers rare affordability without requiring the trade-offs of income or access found in cheaper Appalachian counties. Test the market: compare your current housing costs against Roane's $767 rent and $212,300 median home value to see your potential savings.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Roane County
Rent Burden
13.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,545
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.3%
of gross income
The median home in Roane County may be a stretch
Median home value is $212,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,695 vs. your max of $1,545.
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.