Cost of Living in Washington County, Indiana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Washington County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Washington County ranks #863 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 27%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Washington County, Indiana
Washington County offers moderate affordability
Renters spend 14.9% of their income on housing, just slightly above the sustainable 12-15% benchmark and below Indiana's state average of 15.6%. With median rent at $760 and household income of $61,358, the county provides accessible housing for working families.
Slightly better than state average
Washington County's 14.9% rent-to-income ratio edges out Indiana's state average of 15.6%, placing it in the upper-middle tier for affordability. The county's combination of low rents and modest incomes creates a balanced housing market.
Competitive with similar counties
Washington County's $760 rent is among the lowest in the peer group and matches Vermillion County's affordable profile, though higher than Wabash County's $752. The 14.9% rent-to-income ratio sits between affordability leaders and more burdened neighbors.
Modest housing costs and incomes
Median monthly rent is $760 while homeowner costs run $875 against median household income of $61,358. At 14.9% of income, housing costs remain reasonable without creating extreme budget constraints.
Washington County deserves consideration
Planning a move to Indiana? Washington County delivers below-average rents paired with a 14.9% housing burden that protects your household budget. It's a solid middle-ground choice for families seeking affordability without sacrificing local wages entirely.
Cost of Living Advisory: Washington County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Washington County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $760/month in gross rent, with 26.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Washington County is $760/month, while owner costs run $875/month. Renting saves approximately $115/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,400/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $37,500/year. With a median household income of $61,358, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Washington County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Sullivan County where rent averages $813/month, Washington County is approximately 7% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Washington County
Rent Burden
14.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,432
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Washington County
Median home value is $162,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,296 vs. your max of $1,432.
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 Washington County, Indiana?
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Is Washington County affordable?
How does Washington County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Washington County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
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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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