Cost of Living in Union County, Indiana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Union County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Union County ranks #166 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 5%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Union County, Indiana
Union County rents are remarkably affordable
Renters in Union County spend just 11.9% of their income on housing, well below the national benchmark of 12-15% that experts consider sustainable. The county's median rent of $792 is nearly $100 cheaper than Indiana's state average of $883, while household incomes run slightly above the national median at $79,500.
A top affordability choice statewide
Union County ranks among Indiana's most affordable counties, with a rent-to-income ratio of 11.9% compared to the state average of 15.6%. This combination of reasonable rents and solid incomes makes housing here genuinely accessible for working families across the income spectrum.
Better than most peers
Union County's $792 monthly rent undercuts neighboring Wabash County ($752) and Warren County ($815) moderately, but beats Vanderburgh County ($964) by $172 per month. The county's rent-to-income ratio of 11.9% is the strongest among its peer group, reflecting healthy local wage levels.
Where your housing dollar goes
Median monthly rent stands at $792 while homeowners pay $893 for mortgages, both reasonable against a median household income of $79,500. Just 11.9% of household income goes to rent—meaning families keep more money for food, healthcare, and savings.
Consider Union County's balance
If you're weighing a move to Indiana, Union County offers both affordability and income stability that outpace state averages. With rents well below $800 and no wage penalty compared to neighbors, it's worth serious consideration for renters and homebuyers alike.
Cost of Living Advisory: Union County
Affordability Verdict
Union County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $792/month representing approximately 12.0% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 26.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Union County is $792/month, while owner costs run $893/month. Renting saves approximately $101/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $38,271/year. With a median household income of $79,500, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Union County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Randolph County where rent averages $741/month, Union County is approximately 7% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Union County
Rent Burden
12.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,855
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Union County
Median home value is $162,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,295 vs. your max of $1,855.
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
What is the cost of living in Union County, Indiana?
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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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