Cost of Living in Wilson County, Tennessee
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Wilson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Wilson County ranks #1,522 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 48%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Wilson County, Tennessee
Wilson County: Balanced Prosperity and Affordability
Wilson County renters spend 17.5% of income on housing, nearly matching Tennessee's 17.6% state average despite paying $1,370 monthly—a $510 premium over state median rent. The county achieves this balance through higher-than-average incomes ($94,048 median), supporting both housing costs and quality of life.
Slight Burden Offset by Strong Earnings
Wilson County's 17.5% ratio hovers just below Tennessee's state average, maintained by incomes that rank among the state's strongest at $94,048. This county represents a rare sweet spot: above-average housing costs paired with above-average earning power.
Premium Positioned Between Extremes
Wilson County's $1,370 rent and $397,000 median home value place it squarely between Williamson's affluent extremes and rural neighbors' modest costs. The county attracts middle-to-upper-class households seeking Nashville-area access without Williamson's premium pricing.
Balanced Household Budget Equation
Renters allocate $1,370 monthly while homeowners carry $1,521 on homes valued near $397,000—proportional to the county's above-average incomes rather than excessive by local standards. At 17.5%, housing remains manageable for households earning near the $94,048 median, preserving income for savings and other priorities.
Wilson County: Suburban Balance Worth Exploring
If you're earning $80,000-$110,000 and seeking Nashville-area access without Williamson County's extreme pricing, Wilson County delivers genuine affordability relative to income. Compare your salary to the county's $94,048 median—align yourself closely and you'll find housing costs manageable and community stability strong.
Cost of Living Advisory: Wilson County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Wilson County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,370/month in gross rent, with 28.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Wilson County pay $1,370/month on average, compared to $1,521/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 10%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $54,800/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $65,186/year. With a median household income of $94,048, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Wilson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Tennessee, Wilson County is more affordable than Cheatham County by roughly 8% ($1,370/mo vs $1,274/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Wilson County
Rent Burden
17.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,194
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.4%
of gross income
The median home in Wilson County may be a stretch
Median home value is $397,000. Estimated monthly cost: $3,169 vs. your max of $2,194.
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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