Cost of Living in Bell County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Bell County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Bell County, Kentucky
Bell County faces severe affordability crisis
Bell County's 22.9% rent-to-income ratio represents a housing crisis, nearly 50% above the national affordability threshold of 15-17%. With the lowest median household income among these counties at $32,403, Bell residents face the nation's most acute housing stress.
Kentucky's most burdened housing market
Bell's 22.9% rent-to-income ratio is the worst among all these Kentucky counties, exceeding even Barren County (19.1%) by a significant margin. The combination of minimal incomes and modest rents still overwhelms Bell households.
Lowest income, disproportionate burden
Bell's median income of $32,403 is less than two-thirds of nearby Adair County ($50,316) and less than one-third of prosperous Boone County ($94,752). While its $617 median rent ranks among the region's lowest, it consumes a devastating share of Bell's limited earnings.
Bell's housing burden is unsustainable
Renters allocate $617 monthly to rent—22.9% of the $32,403 median income—while homeowners pay $391, reflecting a distressed market with minimal property values ($83,000 median). Nearly one-quarter of Bell renter income evaporates into housing costs, leaving inadequate resources for food, utilities, and healthcare.
Bell requires exceptional circumstances
Only relocate to Bell County if your income substantially exceeds the county median or employment opportunities guarantee wages well above regional norms. This county demands careful financial planning to ensure housing doesn't crowd out other essential needs.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Bell County
Rent Burden
22.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$756
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Bell County
Median home value is $83,000. Estimated monthly cost: $663 vs. your max of $756.
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.