DeKalb County, Tennessee
Income Data
At a Glance
How DeKalb County Compares
Detailed Income Statistics
Data Story
About Household Income in DeKalb County, Tennessee
DeKalb County income falls below national levels
DeKalb County's median household income of $48,484 lags the national median of $74,755 by $26,271—a 35% gap. This significant shortfall reflects rural Tennessee's economic challenges relative to national prosperity.
Below Tennessee's state income average
DeKalb's $48,484 median household income sits 18% below Tennessee's state average of $58,994. Among the state's counties, DeKalb ranks among those facing the most serious income and employment challenges.
Competing with similarly challenged rural neighbors
DeKalb's $48,484 edges out only Decatur County ($46,190) among comparison counties but trails Dyer ($54,973), Crockett ($59,049), and Cumberland ($58,475). DeKalb faces steep earnings competition even within its rural peer group.
Affordable housing with limited purchasing power
DeKalb's 19.1% rent-to-income ratio appears manageable, but the median household income of $48,484 provides constrained purchasing power for other necessities. Median home values of $206,600 stretch the typical buyer's capacity given local earning levels.
Financial resilience through careful planning
DeKalb County residents should prioritize building emergency savings—targeting three to six months of expenses given income volatility in rural areas. Explore state-sponsored matched savings programs and financial counseling services designed to help low-to-moderate income households build wealth.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Income Comparison Calculator
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Your income is above the DeKalb County median
County median: $48,484 per year
vs. County Median
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vs. State Average
-18%
vs. National Median
-35%
Income Adequacy
Your monthly income ($4,040) vs. median rent ($773/mo). A ratio of 3.3x or higher means rent is under 30% of income.
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Compare RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.