Cost of Living in Lawrence County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lawrence County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Lawrence County ranks #479 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 15%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lawrence County, Kentucky
Lawrence faces above-average rent burden
Lawrence County renters spend 19.2% of income on rent, exceeding Kentucky's 17.0% state average and reflecting a median household income of $45,584—about 39% below the national median. The county's rent-to-income stress reflects broader economic challenges in eastern Kentucky.
Below-average Kentucky affordability
Lawrence County's 19.2% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the state average of 17.0%, placing it among Kentucky's less affordable counties. While median rent ($729) is below state average, local income weakness drives the affordability disadvantage.
Modest rents, modest incomes
Lawrence County's $729 median rent is typical for eastern Kentucky, but the $45,584 median household income trails many comparable counties. This earnings weakness translates into a rent burden 2.2 percentage points above the state average.
Rent takes substantial income share
Lawrence County renters devote 19.2% of their $45,584 annual income to $729 monthly rent, a notably larger burden than state norms. Homeowners fare better: $526 monthly payments equal 13.8% of income, making homeownership ($108,100 median value) a considerably easier path if financing is available.
Weigh housing costs against employment
Lawrence County appeals to remote workers and retirees seeking low absolute housing costs, but traditional job seekers should carefully research employment prospects. If relocating, verify your income matches or exceeds $45,584 to avoid experiencing housing stress above the state average.
Cost of Living Advisory: Lawrence County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Lawrence County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $729/month in gross rent, with 30.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $729/month rent versus $526/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $203/month cheaper — a 28% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,160/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $22,543/year. With a median household income of $45,584, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Lawrence County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Kentucky, Lawrence County is more affordable than Rockcastle County by roughly 8% ($729/mo vs $678/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lawrence County
Rent Burden
19.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,064
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Lawrence County
Median home value is $108,100. Estimated monthly cost: $863 vs. your max of $1,064.
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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