Average Rent in Grainger County, TN🔻 5th cheapest in TN
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 120,765
Market Overview
Grainger County, TN has rental prices ranging from $681/month to $1,192/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $685/month — 51% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $58,130/year, spending $685/month on a 1-bedroom represents 14% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Grainger County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $899/month, Grainger County ranks #69 most expensive of the 73 cities tracked in Tennessee — more affordable than 77% of all US cities in our data.
The Grainger County Rental Market
The Grainger County, TN area has a population of about 120,765 and 29% 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 Grainger County, TN have fallen by $4/month (0.4%) over the past year, from $903 to $899. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Grainger County, TN without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $27,400. The local median household income of $58,130 exceeds that threshold by $30,730, making Grainger County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Grainger 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 | $1,589 | $1,650 | $1,827 | $2,308 | — |
| 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 | — |
| Gibson County | $672 | $709 | $904 | $1,267 | — |
Rent or Buy in Grainger County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Grainger County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Grainger 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 Grainger CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in TNSee how Grainger County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Grainger CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋TN Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections