Cost of Living in Smith County, Tennessee
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Smith County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Smith County ranks #1,551 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 49%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Smith County, Tennessee
Smith County edges toward affordability sweet spot
Smith County's 16.8% rent-to-income ratio sits slightly above the 15% national comfort threshold, making it one of Tennessee's more balanced housing markets despite a median household income of $62,799 that falls below the national average of $74,755. The county's $877 rent represents genuine affordability without sacrificing economic opportunity.
Smith ranks near Tennessee's affordability average
At 16.8%, Smith County's rent-to-income ratio sits just below Tennessee's 17.6% state average, positioning it as one of the state's more balanced housing markets. The median rent of $877 slightly exceeds the state average of $860, but the county's economic fundamentals support this modest premium.
Smith balances cost and community value
Smith County's $877 rent sits firmly between Roane County's $767 and Sevier County's $1,013, while its 16.8% rent-to-income ratio edges below state average—reflecting a rural county that avoids both extreme isolation and metro-area pressures. The positioning: genuine affordability without sacrificing regional connectivity.
Housing costs manageable within county income
Smith residents spend roughly 16.8% of their $62,799 median income on rent ($877) or 14.7% on ownership costs ($769)—proportions that allow substantial household flexibility for savings and other expenses. The median home value of $224,500 reflects a sustainable market where local incomes align reasonably with property values.
Smith County offers balanced housing value
If you seek Tennessee living without extreme affordability trade-offs, Smith County delivers reasonable rents of $877 and a 16.8% rent-to-income ratio that leaves breathing room in household budgets. Test relocation here: compare your current housing costs against Smith's metric—most relocators find modest savings with no sacrifice of community access or economic opportunity.
Cost of Living Advisory: Smith County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Smith County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $877/month in gross rent, with 23.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Smith County is $877/month, while owner costs run $769/month. Owning saves approximately $108/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $35,080/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $32,957/year. With a median household income of $62,799, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in Smith County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Smith County sits 7% more expensive than Hardeman County ($818/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Smith County
Rent Burden
16.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,465
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.7%
of gross income
The median home in Smith County may be a stretch
Median home value is $224,500. Estimated monthly cost: $1,792 vs. your max of $1,465.
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 Smith County, Tennessee?
What is the median rent in Smith County?
Is Smith County affordable?
How does Smith County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Smith County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Smith County, Tennessee? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Smith 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.