Cost of Living in Sevier County, Tennessee
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Sevier County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Sevier County ranks #1,923 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 39%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Sevier County, Tennessee
Sevier's tourist economy drives housing costs up
Sevier County's 19.0% rent-to-income ratio exceeds national affordability norms despite a median household income of $63,829 that falls below the national average of $74,755. The $1,013 monthly rent reflects the county's Gatlinburg-driven tourism economy, which inflates housing costs beyond what local wages can support.
Sevier ranks above average in housing burden
Sevier County's 19.0% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Tennessee's 17.6% state average, and its $1,013 median rent runs $153 above state norms—a premium directly tied to Sevier's dominant tourism sector and seasonal demand. The county's housing costs reflect visitor-driven real estate markets, not purely local economic conditions.
Sevier's prime location commands housing premium
Sevier's $1,013 monthly rent significantly exceeds Roane County's $767 and Sequatchie County's $842, reflecting its proximity to Gatlinburg's attractions and the resulting tourism-driven housing demand. Yet Sevier's rent remains well below Rutherford County's $1,405, showing the limits of tourism-driven pricing.
Tourism dollars support higher housing costs
Sevier residents spend roughly 19% of their $63,829 median income on rent ($1,013) or 14% on ownership costs ($750)—a split that suggests many residents benefit from tourist-season economic activity beyond the median income. The median home value of $259,500 reflects a market where seasonal tourism wealth drives appreciation.
Sevier suits those seeking mountain living premium
If you're drawn to Sevier County's Gatlinburg-adjacent lifestyle and tourism-dependent economy, budget 19% of income for housing costs—a premium justified by natural amenities and seasonal opportunity. Compare whether Sevier's mountain proximity and tourism appeal justify rents $150+ above state average versus more affordable neighboring counties.
Cost of Living Advisory: Sevier County
Affordability Verdict
Sevier County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,013/month — about 19.0% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,013/month rent versus $750/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $263/month cheaper — a 26% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $40,520/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $32,143/year. With a median household income of $63,829, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Sevier County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Tennessee, Sevier County is more affordable than Anderson County by roughly 6% ($1,013/mo vs $960/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Sevier County
Rent Burden
19.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,489
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.1%
of gross income
The median home in Sevier County may be a stretch
Median home value is $259,500. Estimated monthly cost: $2,072 vs. your max of $1,489.
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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