Cost of Living in Johnson County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Johnson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Johnson County ranks #156 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 5%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Johnson County, Kentucky
Johnson lags behind national norms
Johnson County renters spend 19.5% of income on rent—higher than the national benchmark of 30%, but facing a median household income of just $43,014, well below the national median of $74,755. The county's affordability challenge stems not from high rents ($698/month) but from significantly lower earning power.
Struggling compared to Kentucky
Johnson County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.5% exceeds Kentucky's state average of 17.0%, placing it among the state's less affordable counties. While rents are below the state median, local incomes are considerably lower, creating a mismatch that pressures household budgets.
Rents low but incomes lower
Johnson County's $698 median rent is the lowest among comparable eastern Kentucky counties, but the median household income of $43,014 is also among the region's weakest. This affordability paradox means residents pay a smaller dollar amount for housing, but a larger share of meager incomes.
Housing eats income faster here
With $698 monthly rent consuming 19.5% of a $43,014 annual income, Johnson County renters face tighter margins than their state peers. Homeowners fare better: $594 monthly mortgage payments equal just 16.6% of income, making homeownership ($125,300 median value) a more favorable option if financing is available.
Cheap housing, tough economy
Johnson County attracts remote workers and retirees seeking rock-bottom housing costs, but full-time local employment opportunities are limited. If relocating here, verify your income source is portable—local wages won't stretch far despite affordable rents.
Cost of Living Advisory: Johnson County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Johnson County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $698/month in gross rent, with 29.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Johnson County is $698/month, while owner costs run $594/month. Owning saves approximately $104/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $27,920/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $25,457/year. With a median household income of $43,014, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Johnson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Kentucky, Johnson County is less affordable than Allen County by roughly 7% ($698/mo vs $750/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Johnson County
Rent Burden
19.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,004
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Johnson County
Median home value is $125,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,000 vs. your max of $1,004.
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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