Cost of Living in Lafayette County, Florida
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lafayette County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Lafayette County ranks #376 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 12%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lafayette County, Florida
Lafayette beats the nation on rent
At 17.4%, Lafayette's rent-to-income ratio sits well below the national norm, meaning renters here spend significantly less of their paychecks on housing than typical Americans. This county's median rent of $880 a month is roughly 29% cheaper than Florida's state average of $1,233, making it genuinely affordable for working families.
A haven among Florida counties
Lafayette ranks among the most affordable counties in Florida, where the state average rent-to-income ratio stands at 22.5%. At 17.4%, Lafayette's households dedicate less income to rent than nearly every other Florida county, reflecting the area's rural character and lower cost structure.
More affordable than surrounding areas
Compared to nearby Levy County ($826 median rent), Lafayette sits squarely in the affordable rural zone of North Florida. Even Liberty County ($968) and Madison County ($819) show similar affordability patterns, though Lafayette's household incomes of $60,692 sit above the regional average.
Rent and ownership both budget-friendly
Lafayette renters pay $880 monthly against a median household income of $60,692, while homeowners spend $515 on mortgage costs—among the lowest in the state. Combined, housing costs consume roughly 23% of household income for renters and just 10% for owners, leaving substantial room in household budgets for savings and other necessities.
Ready to move to real affordability?
If you're tired of housing costs eating your paycheck, Lafayette offers a rare combination: genuine affordability, low rent-to-income ratios, and modest home values around $131,600. Compare Lafayette's 17.4% rent burden to pricier Florida counties—you'll find hundreds in monthly savings here without sacrificing stability.
Cost of Living Advisory: Lafayette County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Lafayette County is affordable. The median rent is $880/month against a median household income of $60,692, putting rent at 17.4% of income.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Lafayette County is $880/month, while owner costs run $515/month. Owning saves approximately $365/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $35,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $22,071/year. With a median household income of $60,692, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 19.0% of renter households in Lafayette County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Florida, Lafayette County is more affordable than Levy County by roughly 7% ($880/mo vs $826/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lafayette County
Rent Burden
17.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,416
per month
Owner Cost Burden
10.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Lafayette County
Median home value is $131,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,051 vs. your max of $1,416.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Lafayette County, Florida?
What is the median rent in Lafayette County?
Is Lafayette County affordable?
How does Lafayette County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Lafayette County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Lafayette County, Florida? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Lafayette County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.