Cost of Living in Lincoln County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lincoln County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Lincoln County ranks #347 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 11%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lincoln County, Kentucky
Lincoln County rent burden near national average
Lincoln County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.2% sits just above Kentucky's state average and reflects healthy housing affordability by national standards. The county's median household income of $50,862 is 32% below the national average, yet housing remains proportionally accessible.
Solidly affordable within Kentucky
Lincoln County's 17.2% rent-to-income ratio nearly matches Kentucky's state average of 17.0%, placing it among the state's middle-tier counties for affordability. At $730 per month, median rent runs slightly below the state average, offering good value for renters.
Better value than Livingston and Lyon
Lincoln County's $730 median rent sits between Lee County's $593 and Livingston's $912, offering a reasonable middle ground for the region. Its 17.2% rent-to-income ratio beats nearly all neighboring counties, making it a solid choice for affordability-conscious renters.
Homeownership carries higher monthly costs
Lincoln County renters pay $730 monthly while homeowners spend $597, though the median home value of $139,300 is substantially higher than neighboring counties. With median household income of $50,862, housing consumes a reasonable 17% of income for renters and roughly 14% for owners.
Lincoln County balances affordability and value
Lincoln County delivers solid rental affordability with median homes valued at $139,300—higher than rural neighbors but lower than wealthier regions. The county's moderate incomes and reasonable housing costs create a balanced option for families prioritizing stability over rapid wealth building.
Cost of Living Advisory: Lincoln County
Affordability Verdict
Lincoln County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $730/month representing approximately 17.2% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 27.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Lincoln County is $730/month, while owner costs run $597/month. Owning saves approximately $133/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $25,586/year. With a median household income of $50,862, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Lincoln County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Kentucky, Lincoln County is more affordable than Rockcastle County by roughly 8% ($730/mo vs $678/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lincoln County
Rent Burden
17.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,187
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Lincoln County
Median home value is $139,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,112 vs. your max of $1,187.
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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