Cost of Living in Madison County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Madison County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Madison County ranks #1,830 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 42%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Madison County, Kentucky
Madison rents strain less than nation
Madison County residents spend 16.4% of their income on rent, beating the national trend where affordability pressures mount. This modest advantage reflects a median household income of $62,407 against a national median of $74,755—lower wages offset by lower housing costs.
Among Kentucky's most affordable
Madison County ranks well for housing affordability within Kentucky, with a rent-to-income ratio of 16.4% compared to the state average of 17.0%. At $851 monthly rent versus Kentucky's median of $771, the county shows that income levels make the difference.
Competitive with nearby counties
Madison's $851 median rent sits between Marion County ($731) and McCracken County ($861), positioning it squarely in the regional middle. The $62,407 median income keeps affordability in line with similarly-sized Appalachian Kentucky communities.
Rent and ownership both stable
Madison renters allocate $851 monthly while owners pay $1,075, both amounts consuming about 16-17% of the $62,407 median household income. The median home value of $220,700 reflects a balanced housing market neither inflated nor depressed.
Consider Madison for balanced living
If you're relocating from higher-cost regions, Madison offers genuine affordability without sacrificing access to homeownership—median homes under $225k and rents below $900. Compare these figures to Marion ($731 rent) or Marshall ($773 rent) if you prioritize lower monthly costs.
Cost of Living Advisory: Madison County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Madison County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $851/month in gross rent, with 27.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Madison County is $851/month, while owner costs run $1,075/month. Renting saves approximately $224/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,040/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $46,071/year. With a median household income of $62,407, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Madison County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Madison County sits 6% more expensive than Pendleton County ($800/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Madison County
Rent Burden
16.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,456
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.7%
of gross income
The median home in Madison County may be a stretch
Median home value is $220,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,762 vs. your max of $1,456.
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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