Cost of Living in Knott County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Knott County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Knott County ranks #141 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 4%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Knott County, Kentucky
Knott struggles most for affordability
Knott County renters spend 23.3% of income on rent—the highest ratio in this analysis and well above Kentucky's 17.0% state average. With a median household income of just $37,736, half the national median, residents face the steepest housing-cost burden despite $731 monthly rents.
Least affordable in eastern Kentucky
Knott County's 23.3% rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds Kentucky's state average of 17.0%, placing it among the state's most stressed counties. The combination of low incomes and above-average rents creates genuine affordability hardship for renters.
Low wages, high rent pressure
Knott County's $731 median rent is typical for eastern Kentucky, but the $37,736 median household income is among the region's lowest. This mismatch places Knott renters under greater financial stress than similar-rent counties with stronger earning power.
Rental burden dominates household budgets
Knott County renters devote 23.3% of their $37,736 annual income to $731 monthly rent, a significantly higher burden than peers elsewhere. Homeowners fare somewhat better at 17.0% of income ($425/month), but only on median homes worth $74,600—reflecting depressed property values tied to limited local economic opportunity.
Relocate only with strong income
Knott County offers genuine bargains for remote workers and retirees with external income sources, but traditional job seekers should explore stronger labor markets. Compare your current rent burden to 23.3%—if you're below that, moving here without secure employment could worsen your financial position.
Cost of Living Advisory: Knott County
Affordability Verdict
Knott County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $731/month representing approximately 23.2% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 32.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Knott County is $731/month, while owner costs run $425/month. Owning saves approximately $306/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,240/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $18,214/year. With a median household income of $37,736, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 32.0% of renter households in Knott County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Knott County sits 7% less expensive than Barren County ($784/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Knott County
Rent Burden
23.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$881
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Knott County
Median home value is $74,600. Estimated monthly cost: $596 vs. your max of $881.
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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