Cost of Living in Carter County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Carter County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Carter County, Kentucky
Carter County: lowest rents, lowest incomes
At 16.7%, Carter County's rent-to-income ratio falls just below the national average, but this reflects minimal earnings ($50,389) paired with the lowest rents ($701 monthly) in the group. While affordability ratios look reasonable, tight incomes leave little margin for emergencies or savings.
Below-average affordability in state context
Carter's 16.7% rent-to-income ratio sits slightly below Kentucky's 17.0% state average, but the county's $50,389 median income—among the lowest statewide—reflects limited economic opportunity. Rents at $701 are the lowest in this cohort, yet they still consume substantial portions of already-stretched household budgets.
Cheapest rents, but income concerns remain
Carter's $701 rent is the lowest among peer counties, but its $50,389 median income trails all neighbors except Casey County ($41,689). Even with bargain rents, the limited earning capacity here creates structural affordability challenges beyond raw cost percentages.
Lowest rents mask income vulnerability
Carter renters pay just $701 monthly (16.7% of the $50,389 income), while homeowners spend $559—creating the lowest absolute costs in the group. However, the $50,389 median income is second-lowest here, meaning residents have minimal financial cushion despite low rents.
Carter: affordability amid economic constraints
Relocating to Carter County offers rock-bottom housing costs ($701 rent, $559 owner costs), but prospective residents should assess job prospects carefully. Income growth opportunities may matter more than current rent prices—compare Carter's $50,389 median income to neighboring Caldwell ($57,618) or Carlisle ($62,019) to evaluate long-term earning potential.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Carter County
Rent Burden
16.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,176
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Carter County
Median home value is $126,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,007 vs. your max of $1,176.
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.