Cost of Living in Martin County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Martin County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Martin County ranks #161 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 5%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Martin County, Kentucky
Martin County defies affordability crisis
Martin County residents spend just 11.5% of income on rent—the lowest burden among all Kentucky peer counties and a fraction of national stress levels. Despite a modest $46,185 median household income, rock-bottom housing costs make this county exceptionally affordable.
Kentucky's most affordable county
Martin County's 11.5% rent-to-income ratio demolishes the state average of 17.0%, making it the clear affordability leader among Kentucky communities. At $441 monthly rent, Martin offers housing that truly serves lower-income Kentuckians.
Rents lowest by far in region
Martin's $441 median rent is dramatically lower than all neighbors—Magoffin ($633), McCreary ($588), Madison ($851), and Mason ($724)—despite a middle-of-pack income of $46,185. This extreme affordability reflects a less competitive local housing market.
Housing barely strains the budget
Martin renters pay just $441 monthly (11.5% of income) while owners manage even better at $438, leaving substantial room in household budgets. The median home value of $84,900 makes ownership achievable for working families with modest savings.
Martin: ultra-affordable but check opportunities
If housing cost is your sole criterion, Martin County is unbeatable—11.5% of income for rent versus state averages near 17%. Before relocating, verify job prospects and services match your needs, since extreme affordability can signal limited local economic dynamism.
Cost of Living Advisory: Martin County
Affordability Verdict
Martin County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $441/month representing approximately 11.5% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 49.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Martin County is $441/month, while owner costs run $438/month. Owning saves approximately $3/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $17,640/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $18,771/year. With a median household income of $46,185, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 49.0% of renter households in Martin County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Martin County sits 13% less expensive than Wolfe County ($507/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Martin County
Rent Burden
11.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,078
per month
Owner Cost Burden
11.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Martin County
Median home value is $84,900. Estimated monthly cost: $678 vs. your max of $1,078.
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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