Cost of Living in Lake County, Indiana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lake County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lake County, Indiana
Lake County faces steeper housing costs
Lake County renters spend 19.0% of income on housing—the highest rent-to-income ratio in this county cluster and above typical national benchmarks. With a median household income of $68,985 (below the national $74,755) and median rents of $1,094, housing affords less flexibility.
Least affordable renting in Indiana's tier
Lake County's 19.0% rent-to-income ratio substantially exceeds Indiana's 15.6% state average, making it the most housing-strained county in this analysis. Its $1,094 median rent is $211 above the state average of $883.
Highest rents amid lower regional incomes
Lake County's $1,094 median rent rivals Johnson County's $1,208 but paired with $68,985 income—substantially lower than Johnson's $87,227. This income-to-rent mismatch makes Lake County notably less affordable than surrounding counties.
Housing consumes disproportionate share
Renters dedicate 19.0% of income to rent, and homeowners spend roughly 19.4% on mortgages for a median home value of $214,700. Combined with other expenses, housing costs leave Lake County households with tighter budgets than regional peers.
Lake County works for high-earners only
Lake County's steep rents require careful financial planning unless your income exceeds the median significantly. Consider more affordable neighbors like Knox County ($782 rent, $58,863 income) or Lawrence County ($800 rent, $65,551 income) if housing affordability is central to your move.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lake County
Rent Burden
19.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,610
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.3%
of gross income
The median home in Lake County may be a stretch
Median home value is $214,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,714 vs. your max of $1,610.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.