Burlington, NC

Very Low · 67

North Carolina · Population 58,599 · Updated March 2026

$1,030
Median Rent / Month
$54,941
Median Income
$188,700
Median Home Value
$977
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Burlington

22.5%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in North Carolina

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

4.5%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
4.75%
Sales Tax
0.8%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$12,360
Annual Rent
$2,472
State Income Tax
$1,510
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Burlington is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 67 (where 100 equals the national median), Burlington residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,030/month while earning a median household income of $54,941/year.

The median home value in Burlington, NC is $188,700, with typical monthly owner costs around $977 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 22.5% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

North Carolina has a moderate income tax rate of 4.5%. Combined with a 4.75% sales tax rate and 0.8% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Burlington.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Burlington

What is the cost of living in Burlington, NC?
The cost of living index in Burlington, NC is 67 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,030, median household income is $54,941/year, and the median home value is $188,700.
Is Burlington, NC affordable?
Yes, Burlington is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 67. The rent-to-income ratio is 22.5%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Burlington, NC?
The median gross rent in Burlington, NC is $1,030 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $12,360.
What is the median household income in Burlington?
The median household income in Burlington, NC is $54,941 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in North Carolina?
North Carolina has a top income tax rate of 4.5%, a sales tax of 4.75%, and an effective property tax rate of 0.8%.