Cost of Living in Harlan County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Harlan County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Harlan County, Kentucky
Harlan County faces affordability crisis
Harlan County renters spend 21.0% of income on housing—nearly double the national average and the worst ratio in this entire dataset. With a median household income of just $37,198 against $651 monthly rent, residents face genuine affordability strain.
Kentucky's least affordable county
Harlan County's 21.0% rent-to-income ratio far exceeds Kentucky's 17.0% state average and ranks as the state's least affordable among these eight counties. The convergence of low incomes ($37,198) with even modest rents creates unsustainable housing burdens.
Worst-positioned regionally
Harlan County's 21.0% rent-to-income ratio dwarfs every peer, with even the second-worst (Green County at 17.9%) offering significantly better affordability. Median incomes here trail all comparable counties by thousands of dollars.
Housing costs dominate budgets
Renters allocate $651 monthly while homeowners pay just $439 against a median income of $37,198—the lowest in this dataset. Renters dedicate 21% of earnings to housing, leaving minimal room for healthcare, food, transportation, or emergencies.
Challenging market for newcomers
Harlan County offers the lowest home values ($73,100) and some of the cheapest rents, but severe income limitations create a difficult affordability picture overall. Relocators should carefully assess local job prospects and wages before moving—the apparent bargains mask deeper economic challenges.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Harlan County
Rent Burden
21.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$868
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Harlan County
Median home value is $73,100. Estimated monthly cost: $584 vs. your max of $868.
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.