Average Rent in Jackson, TN↑ Rents rising 8.6% YoY🔺 4th priciest in TN
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 180,844
Market Overview
Jackson, TN has rental prices ranging from $848/month to $1,674/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $942/month — 33% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $58,740/year, spending $942/month on a 1-bedroom represents 19% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Jackson Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,236/month, Jackson ranks #4 most expensive of the 73 cities tracked in Tennessee — pricier than 83% of all US cities in our data.
The Jackson Rental Market
The Jackson, TN area has a population of about 180,844 and 35% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Jackson, TN have risen by $98/month (8.6%) over the past year, from $1,138 to $1,236. This rate of increase is significant and reflects strong rental demand and limited housing supply in the local market.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Jackson, TN without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $37,680. The local median household income of $58,740 exceeds that threshold by $21,060, making Jackson relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Rent vs. Buy
The median home value in Jackson, TN is $227,653, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 15.3. The break-even point between renting and buying is roughly 15 years — renting offers more flexibility for shorter stays, while buying makes more sense for long-term residents.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Jackson, TN Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in TNlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville | $1,589 | $1,650 | $1,827 | $2,308 | — |
| Grainger County | $481 | $575 | $689 | $924 | — |
| Knoxville | $1,256 | $1,264 | $1,548 | $1,989 | — |
| Stewart County | $625 | $735 | $911 | $1,277 | — |
| Kingsport | $738 | $824 | $1,043 | $1,343 | — |
| Johnson City | $890 | $895 | $1,119 | $1,389 | — |
Rent or Buy in Jackson?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Jackson data
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
Mortgage Calculator
Estimate monthly payment for $227,653 home at 7% rate
Living in Jackson
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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⚖️Rent vs Buy in JacksonIs it cheaper to rent or buy here?
💵Rent Affordability in JacksonSalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in TNSee how Jackson ranks statewide
⚖️Compare JacksonSide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋TN Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections