Cost of Living in Ripley County, Indiana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Ripley County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Ripley County ranks #206 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 7%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Ripley County, Indiana
Ripley Offers Strong Renting Value
Ripley County renters spend just 13.5% of income on housing, better than Indiana's 15.6% state average and well below the national affordability benchmark. With a median household income of $71,084 and rent at $799, Ripley residents maintain solid financial flexibility.
Southeast Indiana's Sweet Spot
Ripley County ranks in Indiana's top tier for housing affordability, with a 13.5% rent-to-income ratio that beats the state average by 2.1 percentage points. This makes it one of the state's most balanced counties for renters and homeowners alike.
Balanced Costs Across Region
Ripley's $799 rent sits comfortably between Posey's $744 and Putnam's $883, while its $205,300 home value matches Putnam's closely. Its 13.5% rent-to-income ratio beats most neighbors, making it a competitive choice for relocation.
Housing's Fair Share Here
Ripley renters allocate $799 monthly from a median income of $5,924 per month, dedicating 13.5% to housing and retaining 86.5% for savings and living. Homeowners pay $964 monthly on properties valued at $205,300, a balanced investment for the region.
Ripley Balances Costs and Community
Ripley County's competitive affordability paired with solid incomes makes it appealing for families seeking stability and growth potential. Evaluate it alongside Posey and Putnam counties to determine which southeast Indiana location best fits your household's financial picture.
Cost of Living Advisory: Ripley County
Affordability Verdict
Ripley County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $799/month — about 13.5% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Ripley County is $799/month, while owner costs run $964/month. Renting saves approximately $165/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,960/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $41,314/year. With a median household income of $71,084, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Ripley County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Ohio County where rent averages $852/month, Ripley County is approximately 6% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Ripley County
Rent Burden
13.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,659
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Ripley County
Median home value is $205,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,639 vs. your max of $1,659.
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 Ripley County, Indiana?
What is the median rent in Ripley County?
Is Ripley County affordable?
How does Ripley County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Ripley County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Ripley County, Indiana? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Ripley 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.