RentData

Average Rent in Johnson County, TN↑ Rents rising 7.6% YoY🔻 6th cheapest in TN

HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 18,073

Data review: HUD FY2027Sources: HUD, Zillow, Census, BLSMethodologyEditorial standardsReport a correction

Market Overview

Johnson County, TN has rental prices ranging from $761/month to $1,365/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $914/month — 35% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $52,152/year, spending $914/month on a 1-bedroom represents 21% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Johnson County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $995/month, Johnson County ranks #69 most expensive of the 74 cities tracked in Tennessee — more affordable than 72% of all US cities in our data.

The Johnson County Rental Market

The Johnson County, TN area has a population of about 18,073 and 21% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Johnson County, TN have risen by $70/month (7.6%) over the past year, from $925 to $995. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Johnson County, TN without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $36,560. The local median household income of $52,152 exceeds that threshold by $15,592, making Johnson County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Johnson County, TN has an unemployment rate of 4.2%, 0.3 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.

Fair Market Rents

HUD FY2027
Studio
$761
Affordable
1 Bedroom
$914
Affordable
2 Bedrooms
$995
↑7.6% YoY
Affordable
3 Bedrooms
$1,333
Average
4 Bedrooms
$1,365
Average
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Is Johnson County, TN Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Affordability Index(30% income rule)

To rent a 2BR
$39,800/year
Local median income: $52,152
To buy a median home
—/year
US national median: $75,000
💡 Based on a 2BR rent of $995/month and 20% down on a — home at 7% rate.

Nearby Cities in TNlargest metros in the state

CityStudio1BR2BR3BRHome Value
Nashville$1,585$1,650$1,798$2,309—
Grainger County$481$575$689$924—
Grainger County$756$761$995$1,378—
Knoxville$1,171$1,178$1,475$1,844—
Stewart County$693$812$995$1,378—
Kingsport$760$845$1,091$1,375—

Rent or Buy in Johnson County?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Should I Rent or Buy?

Break-even analysis using real Johnson County data

$
Home Value
$350,000
2BR Rent
$995/mo
Mortgage Rate
7%
Monthly P&I
$1,863/mo
🏠 Buy

Buying breaks even after 4 years — worth it if you stay 4+ years.

Total monthly buy cost: $2,577/movs rent: $995/mo
Estimates only. Excludes HOA, PMI (if <20% down), closing costs, and tax benefits. Assumes 5% return on invested down payment.

Living in Johnson County

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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🏘️Neighborhoods in Johnson County

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💵Rent Affordability in Johnson County

Salary needed to afford rent here

🗺️All Cities in TN

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⚖️Compare Johnson County

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📋TN Tenant Rights

Deposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections