Cost of Living in Lee County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lee County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Lee County ranks #457 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 15%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lee County, Kentucky
Lee County's rent burden tops national norm
Renters in Lee County spend 20.8% of their household income on rent, compared to the nation's typical burden of around 28–30% of income. While this sounds manageable, Lee County's median household income of $34,182 is less than half the national median of $74,755, making even "affordable" rent a squeeze.
Above Kentucky's affordability average
Lee County's 20.8% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Kentucky's state average of 17.0%, placing it among less affordable counties in the Commonwealth. At $593 per month, median rent is notably lower than the state average of $771, but local incomes are proportionally lower too.
Cheaper rent, similar income struggles
Lee County's $593 median rent is the lowest among its regional neighbors—Leslie County renters pay $520, Letcher $651, and Lewis $757. However, Lee County's median income of $34,182 remains among the lowest in this group, making affordability a relative strength.
Renting vs. owning in Lee County
Monthly rent averages $593 while homeowners pay $471, making purchase more affordable than rent—though the median home value of $82,100 still requires substantial savings. With a median household income of $34,182 annually ($2,848/month), housing consumes over 20% of the typical family's budget.
Consider Lee if you value affordability
Lee County offers some of the region's lowest housing costs, particularly for homebuyers, making it attractive for those prioritizing affordable homeownership. Compare this county's tight labor market and income levels carefully against your own employment prospects before relocating.
Cost of Living Advisory: Lee County
Affordability Verdict
Lee County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $593/month representing approximately 20.8% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 32.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Lee County pay $593/month on average, compared to $471/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 21%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $23,720/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $20,186/year. With a median household income of $34,182, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 32.0% of renter households in Lee County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Fulton County where rent averages $542/month, Lee County is approximately 9% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lee County
Rent Burden
20.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$798
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Lee County
Median home value is $82,100. Estimated monthly cost: $655 vs. your max of $798.
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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