Graham, NC

Very Low · 68

North Carolina · Population 17,537 · Updated March 2026

$990
Median Rent / Month
$54,783
Median Income
$200,600
Median Home Value
$982
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Graham

21.7%
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

$11,880
Annual Rent
$2,465
State Income Tax
$1,605
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Graham is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 68 (where 100 equals the national median), Graham residents can expect to pay median rent of $990/month while earning a median household income of $54,783/year.

The median home value in Graham, NC is $200,600, with typical monthly owner costs around $982 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 21.7% 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 Graham.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Graham

What is the cost of living in Graham, NC?
The cost of living index in Graham, NC is 68 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $990, median household income is $54,783/year, and the median home value is $200,600.
Is Graham, NC affordable?
Yes, Graham is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 68. The rent-to-income ratio is 21.7%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Graham, NC?
The median gross rent in Graham, NC is $990 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $11,880.
What is the median household income in Graham?
The median household income in Graham, NC is $54,783 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%.