Cost of Living in Letcher County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Letcher County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Letcher County ranks #421 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 13%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Letcher County, Kentucky
Letcher rent-to-income ratio tracks national norms
Letcher County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.3% aligns closely with typical American housing burden levels, meaning renters here spend a reasonable share of income on housing. Yet the county's median household income of $40,501—just 54% of the national average—undercuts this affordability advantage.
Above state average in affordability pressure
Letcher County's 19.3% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Kentucky's state average of 17.0%, placing housing affordability slightly above the statewide norm. Median rent of $651 sits well below the state average of $771, though local incomes lag proportionally.
Mid-range rent among Appalachian peers
Letcher County's $651 median rent falls between Leslie County's $520 and Lewis County's $757, positioning it squarely in the regional middle. However, Letcher's 19.3% rent-to-income ratio is the highest among nearby counties, signaling tighter household affordability.
Rent costs outpace homeownership expenses
Renters in Letcher pay $651 monthly compared to homeowners' $473, making purchase significantly more affordable than renting. Median home value of $70,500 combined with a median household income of $40,501 makes homeownership a realistic goal for many residents.
Letcher suits buyers more than renters
If you're ready to buy, Letcher County offers affordable homes and manageable owner costs, though renters face above-average affordability pressure. Investigate local employment in your field—coal mining's decline has reshaped the county's job market significantly.
Cost of Living Advisory: Letcher County
Affordability Verdict
Letcher County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $651/month representing approximately 19.3% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 28.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Letcher County pay $651/month on average, compared to $473/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 27%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $26,040/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $20,271/year. With a median household income of $40,501, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Letcher County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Letcher County sits 9% more expensive than Bath County ($600/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Letcher County
Rent Burden
19.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$945
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Letcher County
Median home value is $70,500. Estimated monthly cost: $563 vs. your max of $945.
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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