Cost of Living in Clark County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Clark County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Clark County ranks #1,848 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 41%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Clark County, Kentucky
Clark County Rents Stay Below National Stress
Renters in Clark County spend just 15.6% of their income on housing, well below the national affordability threshold of 30% and better than Kentucky's state average of 17%. At $883 monthly, rents here run about $115 more than the state average but remain manageable for a county where median household income reaches $67,824.
Among Kentucky's Most Affordable Counties
Clark County ranks among the state's most affordable places to rent, with a rent-to-income ratio below the state average. This affordability edge stems from the balance between moderate incomes and controlled housing costs, making it a competitive option within Kentucky's rental market.
Competitive With Central Kentucky Peers
Clark County's $883 rent is comparable to Daviess County ($906) but noticeably higher than surrounding rural counties like Crittenden ($618) and Cumberland ($553). The difference reflects Clark's stronger local economy and more developed urban infrastructure around Winchester.
Rent and Homeownership Both Viable
Renters pay $883 monthly while homeowners carry $1,049 in monthly costs, with median home values at $197,900. The 15.6% rent-to-income ratio means the typical household dedicates about one-sixth of earnings to housing, leaving room for other expenses.
Seeking Balanced Rural-Urban Living?
If you're relocating from a high-cost metro area, Clark County offers affordable housing with a stronger median income than many rural Kentucky alternatives. Compare this county's 15.6% rent burden against neighboring communities to find your best fit in central Kentucky.
Cost of Living Advisory: Clark County
Affordability Verdict
Clark County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $883/month — about 15.6% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Clark County is $883/month, while owner costs run $1,049/month. Renting saves approximately $166/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $35,320/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $44,957/year. With a median household income of $67,824, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Clark County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Clark County sits 6% less expensive than Trimble County ($935/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Clark County
Rent Burden
15.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,583
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Clark County
Median home value is $197,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,580 vs. your max of $1,583.
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
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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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