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Cost of Living in Bristol City

Is it better to rent or buy in Bristol City? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

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Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$50,001
$875/mo

Median in area: $875

$168,919

Median in area: $168,919

$33,784

If you Rent

🔑
$1,021 /mo
Base Rent$875
Est. Utilities$146
% of Income24.5%
Pre-tax Residual$3,146

If you Buy

🏠
$1,202 /mo
P&I (7.145%)$912
Taxes & Ins$144
Est. Utilities$146
% of Income28.9%
Pre-tax Residual$2,964

Compare Nearby Areas

See how Bristol City stacks up against neighboring areas.

countySullivan County, TN
$908/mo
countyWashington County, VA
$866/mo

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Bristol City?›

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Bristol City. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,021, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $1,202 per month (a difference of $181).

How much do utilities cost in Bristol City?›

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Bristol City is approximately $146. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Bristol City?›

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Bristol City without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $40,840 per year.