Cost of Living in Sullivan County, Indiana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Sullivan County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Sullivan County ranks #829 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 26%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Sullivan County, Indiana
Sullivan County: Affordability Challenged
Sullivan County renters face a 17.7% rent-to-income ratio—above Indiana's 15.6% state average—while earning just $54,985 annually, the lowest median income in this group. At $813 monthly rent, affordability here is strained despite modest absolute costs.
Among Indiana's Most Strained Markets
Sullivan County ranks below state averages for housing affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio that indicates genuine budget pressures on renters. The combination of low income and moderate rents creates a tighter squeeze than most Indiana counties.
Sullivan's Modest Rents, Lowest Income
Sullivan's $813 rent is cheaper than most comparables, yet its affordability challenge stems from the county's notably lower median income ($54,985) versus neighbors. Owner costs of $818 are among the lowest regionally, offering some relief for homebuyers.
Low Income Amplifies Housing Burden
Sullivan County households spend $813 on median rent and $818 on owner costs, combined equaling 29.8% of income—higher than most peers despite low absolute costs. The 17.7% rent-to-income ratio underscores how limited earnings stretch housing expenses thinly.
Sullivan: Budget Carefully Here
Relocating to Sullivan County? While rents are genuinely cheap and home values rock-bottom, your income will need to stretch further than in wealthier counties to maintain living standards. This county suits only those with stable, modest income expectations or significant savings.
Cost of Living Advisory: Sullivan County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Sullivan County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $813/month in gross rent, with 27.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Sullivan County is $813/month, while owner costs run $818/month. Renting saves approximately $5/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,520/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $35,057/year. With a median household income of $54,985, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Sullivan County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Sullivan County sits 6% less expensive than Jefferson County ($865/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Sullivan County
Rent Burden
17.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,283
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Sullivan County
Median home value is $122,200. Estimated monthly cost: $976 vs. your max of $1,283.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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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
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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.
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