Cost of Living in Lewis County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lewis County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lewis County, Kentucky
Lewis County's rent burden tops regional peers
Lewis County's rent-to-income ratio of 21.8% exceeds typical American affordability thresholds and signals housing stress for renters on local wages. With median household income of just $41,632—44% below the national average—the $757 monthly rent hits household budgets hard.
Among Kentucky's least affordable rentals
Lewis County's 21.8% rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds Kentucky's state average of 17.0%, making it one of the state's least affordable counties for renters. Median rent of $757 matches the state average exactly, but Lewis incomes are substantially lower.
Most expensive rent in the regional cluster
Lewis County's $757 median rent is the highest among its neighboring counties—$164 above Leslie and $106 above Letcher. Combined with the region's lowest median household income relative to rent costs, Lewis renters face the tightest affordability squeeze.
Housing consumes over one-fifth of income
Monthly rent of $757 and homeowner costs of $493 reveal that Lewis renters face notably higher expenses than homeowners here. With median household income of $41,632 annually, rent alone consumes 21.8% of typical household budgets—well above comfortable levels.
Lewis: choose carefully if renting
Lewis County's high rent-to-income ratio makes it challenging for renters, though homebuyers find median homes at reasonable $86,100 prices. Prioritize verifying stable local employment before relocating, as the county's economic situation requires dual-income or above-average wages to maintain comfort.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lewis County
Rent Burden
21.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$971
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Lewis County
Median home value is $86,100. Estimated monthly cost: $687 vs. your max of $971.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Lewis County, Kentucky?
What is the median rent in Lewis County?
Is Lewis County affordable?
How does Lewis County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Lewis County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Lewis County, Kentucky? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in Lewis County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.