Cost of Living in Scott County, Tennessee
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Scott County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Scott County ranks #791 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 25%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Scott County, Tennessee
Scott County offers cheap housing, tight budgets
Scott County's 19.4% rent-to-income ratio exceeds national norms despite its bargain-basement rent of $691 monthly, revealing a fundamental challenge: the county's median household income of just $42,679 ranks far below the national average of $74,755. Lower rents can't offset significantly lower wages.
Scott ranks low on both income and affordability
Scott County's 19.4% rent-to-income ratio slightly exceeds Tennessee's 17.6% state average, and its median household income of $42,679 falls roughly $20,000 below the state's economic center. The county represents Tennessee's economic margin, where affordable housing meets limited earning potential.
Scott's cheapest housing reflects its challenges
Scott County's $691 rent is Tennessee's lowest among these eight counties, undercutting Roane County's $767 by $76 monthly, yet the county's median income of $42,679 trails all peers by thousands. Cheap housing masks deeper economic constraints limiting household purchasing power.
Low income makes even cheap rent a strain
Scott residents spend 19.4% of their $42,679 median income on rent despite the county's $691 monthly average, while ownership costs of $499 remain modest in dollar terms but substantial as a percentage of earnings. The $116,800 median home value offers accessibility, but limited income constrains household wealth accumulation.
Scott suits those prioritizing lowest dollar costs
Scott County's appeal lies in absolute affordability—rent under $700 and homes near $117,000—making it attractive for retirees on fixed incomes or remote workers whose earnings don't depend on local opportunity. If your income flows from outside the county, Scott's low costs stretch your budget further than anywhere else in this region.
Cost of Living Advisory: Scott County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Scott County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $691/month in gross rent, with 26.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $691/month rent versus $499/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $192/month cheaper — a 28% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $27,640/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $21,386/year. With a median household income of $42,679, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Scott County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Scott County sits 7% less expensive than Morgan County ($742/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Scott County
Rent Burden
19.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$996
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Scott County
Median home value is $116,800. Estimated monthly cost: $932 vs. your max of $996.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Scott County, Tennessee?
What is the median rent in Scott County?
Is Scott County affordable?
How does Scott County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Scott County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Scott County, Tennessee? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Scott County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.