Oak Ridge, TN

Below Avg · 75

Tennessee · Population 32,088 · Updated March 2026

$1,076
Median Rent / Month
$71,000
Median Income
$233,500
Median Home Value
$1,074
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Oak Ridge

18.2%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in Tennessee

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

0%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
7.0%
Sales Tax
0.64%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$12,912
Annual Rent
$0
State Income Tax
$1,494
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Oak Ridge is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 75 (where 100 equals the national median), Oak Ridge residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,076/month while earning a median household income of $71,000/year.

The median home value in Oak Ridge, TN is $233,500, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,074 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 18.2% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

Tennessee has no state income tax, which can represent significant savings compared to high-tax states. Combined with a 7.0% sales tax rate and 0.64% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment helps keep costs manageable in Oak Ridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Oak Ridge

What is the cost of living in Oak Ridge, TN?
The cost of living index in Oak Ridge, TN is 75 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,076, median household income is $71,000/year, and the median home value is $233,500.
Is Oak Ridge, TN affordable?
Yes, Oak Ridge is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 75. The rent-to-income ratio is 18.2%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Oak Ridge, TN?
The median gross rent in Oak Ridge, TN is $1,076 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $12,912.
What is the median household income in Oak Ridge?
The median household income in Oak Ridge, TN is $71,000 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Tennessee?
Tennessee has a top income tax rate of 0%, a sales tax of 7.0%, and an effective property tax rate of 0.64%. Notably, there is no state income tax.