Cost of Living in Benton County, Indiana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Benton County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Benton County, Indiana
Benton County offers modest affordability relief
Benton County renters spend 16.2% of income on housing—below the national affordability threshold and competitive with most U.S. counties. At a median household income of $61,811 (17% below the national average of $74,755) with $834 monthly rent, this rural county delivers accessible housing despite below-average earning power.
Slightly above Indiana's affordability average
Benton County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.2% edges above Indiana's state average of 15.6%, though modestly. With median rent of $834, it falls just below the state median of $883, positioning Benton as a borderline-affordable option within Indiana's rental landscape.
Competitive with surrounding rural areas
Benton County's $834 rent undercuts nearby Carroll County ($874) and rivals Adams County ($799) in rural affordability. Home values of $135,400 represent one of Indiana's lowest, offering entry-level ownership opportunities in this sparsely populated northwest region.
Tight household budgets benefit from low housing
Renters earning $61,811 annually ($5,151 monthly) allocate $834 to rent—16.2% of gross income, leaving modest cushion for other essentials. Homeowners pay $864 monthly, creating similar affordability pressures across both tenure types in this lower-income county.
Benton County: maximum affordability, minimal income
Benton County delivers some of Indiana's lowest home values ($135,400) and reasonable rents, but earn the lowest median household income statewide at $61,811. If housing cost is your sole concern, Benton offers relief; if career advancement and income growth matter, weigh limited local job markets against its undeniable housing affordability.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Benton County
Rent Burden
16.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,442
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Benton County
Median home value is $135,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,081 vs. your max of $1,442.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Benton County, Indiana?
What is the median rent in Benton County?
Is Benton County affordable?
How does Benton County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Benton County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Benton County, Indiana? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in Benton 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.