Average Rent in Roane County, TN↓ Rents falling 4.0% YoY
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 54,403
Market Overview
Roane County, TN has rental prices ranging from $857/month to $1,649/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $862/month — 38% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $66,218/year, spending $862/month on a 1-bedroom represents 16% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Roane County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,048/month, Roane County ranks #22 most expensive of the 74 cities tracked in Tennessee — pricier than 56% of all US cities in our data.
The Roane County Rental Market
The Roane County, TN area has a population of about 54,403 and 22% 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 Roane County, TN have fallen by $44/month (4.0%) over the past year, from $1,092 to $1,048. This slight decline is consistent with broader market corrections seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Roane County, TN without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $34,480. The local median household income of $66,218 exceeds that threshold by $31,738, making Roane County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Roane County, TN has an unemployment rate of 3.6%, 0.3 percentage points below the national average of 3.9%. Strong employment conditions typically sustain rental demand, as workers relocate to the area and local residents maintain stable housing.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2027Is Roane County, 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 | $1,585 | $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 Roane County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Roane County data
Buying breaks even after 3 years — worth it if you stay 3+ years.
Living in Roane County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Roane CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in TNSee how Roane County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Roane CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋TN Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections