Cost of Living in Wayne County, Indiana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Wayne County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Wayne County, Indiana
Wayne County rents squeeze tighter than nation
Wayne County residents spend 17.2% of their income on rent, outpacing the national average by over a percentage point. With a median household income of $56,652—about $18,000 below the U.S. median—housing costs take a steeper bite here than in most American counties.
Above Indiana's affordability average
Wayne County's 17.2% rent-to-income ratio ranks it among Indiana's least affordable counties, above the state average of 15.6%. Only a handful of Indiana counties face higher housing cost burdens than Wayne.
Higher costs than surrounding counties
Wayne County's median rent of $813 undercuts the state average of $883, yet its rent-to-income ratio remains worse due to lower median incomes. Neighboring Wells County achieves a healthier 14.4% ratio despite similar rents, thanks to $13,000 higher median household income.
Rent and mortgage burden in Wayne
Renters pay $813 monthly while homeowners carry $836 in mortgage costs, both reasonable in absolute dollars but consuming a larger share of Wayne's $56,652 median household income. Housing costs consume roughly one-sixth of household budgets here, leaving less for savings, healthcare, and other necessities.
Consider Wayne for affordable homeownership
With median home values at $126,100—the lowest among these four counties—Wayne offers an entry point for first-time homebuyers despite income challenges. If your household earns near the state median, Wayne's housing market is worth comparing to pricier neighboring counties.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Wayne County
Rent Burden
17.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,322
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Wayne County
Median home value is $126,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,007 vs. your max of $1,322.
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.