Cost of Living in Bartholomew County, Indiana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Bartholomew County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Bartholomew County ranks #1,232 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 39%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Bartholomew County, Indiana
Bartholomew County balances higher incomes with costs
Bartholomew County renters spend 16.6% of income on housing—above the national 30% threshold benchmark but supported by a median household income of $80,365, well above the U.S. average of $74,755. At $1,110 monthly rent, housing costs here reflect both stronger local earning power and higher-value properties.
Mid-range affordability within Indiana
Bartholomew County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.6% exceeds Indiana's state average of 15.6%, positioning it as a moderately expensive Indiana county. Median rent of $1,110 runs 25.6% higher than the state median of $883, indicating a more affluent local market.
Pricier than surrounding rural counties
Bartholomew County's $1,110 rent substantially exceeds nearby Adams ($799) and Carroll ($874), making it the costliest rental market in its immediate region. Home values of $221,100 also reflect Columbus's role as a regional economic hub, supporting stronger property valuations than peripheral counties.
Higher income absorbs higher costs
With an annual income of $80,365 ($6,697 monthly), renters allocate roughly $1,110 to housing—maintaining healthy affordability despite above-state-average rents. Homeowners pay $1,061 monthly, creating balanced housing burdens across both tenure types.
A prosperous county with premium pricing
Bartholomew County offers the state's strongest median income ($80,365) and robust employment markets around Columbus, though housing costs run 25% above Indiana's state average. If career growth and earning potential drive your move, Bartholomew's higher salaries may offset housing premiums; compare your earning trajectory against 16.6% rent-to-income expectations.
Cost of Living Advisory: Bartholomew County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Bartholomew County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,110/month in gross rent, with 27.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Bartholomew County is $1,110/month, while owner costs run $1,061/month. Owning saves approximately $49/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $44,400/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $45,471/year. With a median household income of $80,365, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Bartholomew County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Bartholomew County sits 5% more expensive than Clark County ($1,058/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Bartholomew County
Rent Burden
16.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,875
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Bartholomew County
Median home value is $221,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,765 vs. your max of $1,875.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
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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
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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