Kinston, NC

Very Low · 50

North Carolina · Population 19,576 · Updated March 2026

$822
Median Rent / Month
$35,250
Median Income
$108,300
Median Home Value
$818
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Kinston

28.0%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Moderate
Rent takes 25-35% of median income — moderate affordability.

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

$9,864
Annual Rent
$1,586
State Income Tax
$866
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Kinston is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 50 (where 100 equals the national median), Kinston residents can expect to pay median rent of $822/month while earning a median household income of $35,250/year.

The median home value in Kinston, NC is $108,300, with typical monthly owner costs around $818 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. With a rent-to-income ratio of 28.0%, Kinston falls within the generally affordable range, though it's approaching the 30% burden threshold.

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 Kinston.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Kinston

What is the cost of living in Kinston, NC?
The cost of living index in Kinston, NC is 50 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $822, median household income is $35,250/year, and the median home value is $108,300.
Is Kinston, NC affordable?
Yes, Kinston is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 50. The rent-to-income ratio is 28.0%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Kinston, NC?
The median gross rent in Kinston, NC is $822 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $9,864.
What is the median household income in Kinston?
The median household income in Kinston, NC is $35,250 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%.