Average Rent in Smith County, MS↑ Rents rising 7.5% YoY🔻 3rd cheapest in MS
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 14,193
Market Overview
Smith County, MS has rental prices ranging from $761/month to $1,189/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $769/month — 45% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $51,396/year, spending $769/month on a 1-bedroom represents 18% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Smith County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $905/month, Smith County ranks #78 most expensive of the 80 cities tracked in Mississippi — more affordable than 96% of all US cities in our data.
The Smith County Rental Market
The Smith County, MS area has a population of about 14,193 and 14% 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 Smith County, MS have risen by $63/month (7.5%) over the past year, from $842 to $905. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Smith County, MS without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $30,760. The local median household income of $51,396 exceeds that threshold by $20,636, making Smith County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Smith County, MS has an unemployment rate of 3.5%, 0.4 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 Smith County, MS 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 MSlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holmes County | $798 | $831 | $905 | $1,253 | — |
| Jackson | $1,099 | $1,105 | $1,289 | $1,536 | — |
| Stone County | $871 | $882 | $1,047 | $1,248 | — |
| Pascagoula | $960 | $966 | $1,099 | $1,506 | — |
| Gulfport | $844 | $982 | $1,185 | $1,525 | — |
| Covington County | $656 | $783 | $933 | $1,232 | — |
Rent or Buy in Smith County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Smith County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Smith 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 Smith CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MSSee how Smith County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Smith CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋MS Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections