Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Indiana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jefferson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Jefferson County ranks #656 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 21%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Indiana
Jefferson County's Housing Affordability Strain
Jefferson County residents experience a 17.3% rent-to-income ratio, among the state's tightest, paired with a median household income of $59,987 that falls nearly $15,000 short of the national median. Monthly rents of $865 consume a troubling share of household budgets here.
Jefferson's Standing in Indiana
At 17.3%, Jefferson County's rent-to-income ratio ranks among Indiana's least affordable, exceeding the state average of 15.6% by 1.7 percentage points. The county's below-average income of $59,987 compounds the affordability challenge, making housing a significant budget strain.
Jefferson vs. Surrounding Counties
Jefferson County's 17.3% rent burden makes it one of the region's least affordable, surpassed only by Howard County at 17.6% and Jay County at 17.0%. While rents at $865 run moderate, the combination of modest housing costs and weak incomes creates persistent affordability pressure.
Jefferson County Housing Economics
Jefferson County residents earning the median $59,987 annually spend about $865 monthly on rent—a significant 17.3% of gross income. Homeowners face nearly identical $866 monthly costs on properties valued around $180,600, making ownership no easier than renting financially.
Relocating to Jefferson County?
Jefferson County's 17.3% rent-to-income ratio and modest incomes signal tight household budgets for most residents, making it a challenging move unless you're relocating with above-average income or employment already secured. If you're considering Jefferson for lower housing costs, recognize that the real affordability gains vanish without stable, competitive employment.
Cost of Living Advisory: Jefferson County
Affordability Verdict
Jefferson County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $865/month representing approximately 17.3% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 27.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Jefferson County is $865/month, while owner costs run $866/month. Renting saves approximately $1/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,600/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $37,114/year. With a median household income of $59,987, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Jefferson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Sullivan County where rent averages $813/month, Jefferson County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jefferson County
Rent Burden
17.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,400
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.3%
of gross income
The median home in Jefferson County may be a stretch
Median home value is $180,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,442 vs. your max of $1,400.
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 Jefferson County, Indiana?
What is the median rent in Jefferson County?
Is Jefferson County affordable?
How does Jefferson County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Jefferson County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Jefferson County, Indiana? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Jefferson 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.