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
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.
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
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.