Cost of Living in Monroe County, Indiana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Monroe County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Monroe County, Indiana
Monroe County's affordability crisis
Monroe County renters spend 21.8% of their income on housing—the highest burden among these eight counties and well above healthy national benchmarks. A median household income of $63,372 struggles to support rents averaging $1,151, creating significant affordability strain.
Indiana's least affordable county here
Monroe County's 21.8% rent-to-income ratio far exceeds Indiana's 15.6% state average, marking it as the state's most expensive option in this sample. The median rent of $1,151 tops all neighboring counties and runs $268 above the state average.
A premium among Indiana neighbors
Monroe County's $1,151 rent exceeds every comparable county, from Marion County's $1,107 to Martin County's $643—a $508 spread in the region. The median home value of $261,700 is the highest here, reflecting the county's expensive housing market driven largely by Bloomington's presence.
Monroe's housing burden breakdown
Renters earning Monroe County's $63,372 median income dedicate $1,151 monthly to rent—a substantial 21.8% of gross earnings. Homebuyers facing a median home value of $261,700 pay $1,108 monthly, a burden that consumes roughly 21% of household income.
High costs justified by amenities, not affordability
Monroe County's steep housing costs reflect Bloomington's university presence, amenities, and demand rather than exceptional income levels. Relocating here requires either higher income or budget restructuring; those prioritizing affordability should explore Marion County ($1,107 rent) or Martin County ($643 rent) instead.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Monroe County
Rent Burden
21.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,479
per month
Owner Cost Burden
21.0%
of gross income
The median home in Monroe County may be a stretch
Median home value is $261,700. Estimated monthly cost: $2,089 vs. your max of $1,479.
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.