Cost of Living in Estill County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Estill County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Estill County ranks #706 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 22%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Estill County, Kentucky
Estill rents fit national patterns
Estill County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.8% sits slightly above the national sweet spot, where housing experts recommend spending no more than 30% of income on rent. While median household income here ($43,905) trails the U.S. average ($74,755) by 41%, local rents at $689/month remain relatively modest compared to national markets.
Above Kentucky average affordability
Estill's 18.8% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Kentucky's state average of 17.0%, placing it in the middle tier of affordability across the commonwealth. At $689/month, local rents run 11% below the state median of $771, offering relief despite below-average incomes.
Competing in the regional market
Estill's $689 rent compares favorably to nearby Floyd County ($713) and sits between Fleming County ($677) and Fayette County's urban premium ($1,101). However, Estill faces higher affordability pressure than neighboring Fleming (16.4% ratio) due to lower median incomes, making it a working-class rental market.
Where your income goes
A typical Estill household earning $43,905 annually spends $689 on rent (18.8% of income) or $607 on mortgage payments, with homebuyers looking at properties valued around $111,900. These proportions stay below the danger zone, leaving room for other essentials in a modest budget.
Considering Estill? Here's what to know
If you're seeking Kentucky rental affordability without sacrificing too much income, Estill offers reasonable rents with cost-of-living advantages—though you'll want to compare job opportunities and income potential against nearby options like Fayette County's higher wages. The county's 18.8% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably within the acceptable range, making it accessible for working families.
Cost of Living Advisory: Estill County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Estill County is affordable. The median rent is $689/month against a median household income of $43,905, putting rent at 18.8% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Estill County pay $689/month on average, compared to $607/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 12%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $27,560/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $26,014/year. With a median household income of $43,905, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Estill County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Estill County sits 7% less expensive than Powell County ($743/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Estill County
Rent Burden
18.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,024
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Estill County
Median home value is $111,900. Estimated monthly cost: $893 vs. your max of $1,024.
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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