Cost of Living in Harrison County, Indiana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Harrison County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Harrison County ranks #579 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 18%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Harrison County, Indiana
Harrison navigates affordability well
Harrison County residents earn $72,468—slightly below the national average of $74,755—yet maintain an excellent 14.3% rent-to-income ratio, the best among these eight counties. At $861 monthly, renters here achieve rare affordability-to-income balance for their income tier.
State's most efficient housing market
Harrison's 14.3% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest statewide in this analysis and well below Indiana's 15.6% average, positioning it as the county where income stretches furthest in housing terms. The median rent of $861 equals the state typical, demonstrating genuine efficiency rather than low-cost compensation.
Best rent-to-income combo statewide
Harrison's 14.3% ratio beats all seven peer counties despite earning just $72,468—slightly below Hancock but substantially above Grant County. The $861 rent matches Fulton County but on $9,590 more annual income, shifting affordability dramatically in Harrison's favor.
Harrison's remarkably balanced budget
Renters pay $861 while homeowners commit $956, with the higher homeowner cost likely reflecting southern Indiana's scenic river-valley premium properties valued at $219,200. At $72,468 income, Harrison residents spend only 14-16% on housing, preserving maximum flexibility for other needs.
Best-kept secret for balanced living
Harrison County offers the tightest affordability ratio for your income dollar anywhere in this analysis—ideal for middle-income earners seeking rural southern Indiana character. If you're relocating on a $70-75k income and want the best housing-cost efficiency, Harrison outperforms all alternatives here.
Cost of Living Advisory: Harrison County
Affordability Verdict
Harrison County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $861/month — about 14.3% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $861/month rent versus $956/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $95/month cheaper — a 10% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $40,971/year. With a median household income of $72,468, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Harrison County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Indiana, Harrison County is less affordable than Owen County by roughly 6% ($861/mo vs $912/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Harrison County
Rent Burden
14.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,691
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.8%
of gross income
The median home in Harrison County may be a stretch
Median home value is $219,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,750 vs. your max of $1,691.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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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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