Cost of Living in Jay County, Indiana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jay County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jay County, Indiana
Jay County's Income and Housing Challenge
Jay County faces the hardest affordability battle in this regional cluster, with a 17.0% rent-to-income ratio and the lowest median household income at just $54,114—nearly $21,000 below the national average. At $766 monthly, rents are the cheapest available, but incomes simply don't stretch far enough to ease the burden.
Jay County's Affordability Struggle
Jay County's 17.0% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Indiana's 15.6% state average, and its median income of $54,114 ranks among the state's lowest. The county's rock-bottom housing costs at $766 monthly can't fully compensate for wages that lag statewide norms.
Jay County: The Region's Toughest Market
Jay County's 17.0% rent burden and $54,114 median income stand out as the least favorable in this cluster—even Henry County's lower incomes are cushioned by better housing-to-income ratios. At $766 monthly, Jay's rents are the cheapest, but that advantage disappears against wages stretched thin.
Jay County's Tight Housing Equation
Jay County residents earning just $54,114 annually dedicate about $766 monthly to rent—17.0% of gross income, the highest burden here. Homeownership at $745 monthly on properties valued around $110,100 looks affordable in isolation but demands careful budgeting given limited local incomes.
Jay County: Proceed With Caution
Jay County's ultra-cheap housing costs of $766 monthly and home values under $111,000 attract relocators on tight budgets, but the county's low median income of $54,114 signals limited job prospects. Only consider Jay if you're relocating with employment already secured or remote work that pays above-county-median wages.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jay County
Rent Burden
17.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,263
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Jay County
Median home value is $110,100. Estimated monthly cost: $879 vs. your max of $1,263.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Jay County, Indiana?
What is the median rent in Jay County?
Is Jay County affordable?
How does Jay County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Jay County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Jay County, Indiana? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in Jay 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.