Cost of Living in McCracken County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How McCracken County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
McCracken County ranks #1,986 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 37%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in McCracken County, Kentucky
McCracken rents stress middle-class budgets
McCracken County residents spend 16.6% of income on rent—just below Kentucky's 17% average but above many peer counties—while earning $62,385 close to but still below the national $74,755. The $861 monthly rent is the region's highest, reflecting more competitive local housing.
Slightly above average housing burden
McCracken's 16.6% rent-to-income ratio edges above Kentucky's 17.0% state average, while its $861 median rent exceeds the state median of $771 by $90. This combination signals McCracken's housing is pricier relative to state norms.
Region's priciest rental market
McCracken's $861 median rent tops all neighbors—Madison ($851), Marshall ($773), Marion ($731), Mason ($724), and Martin ($441)—reflecting its larger urban center (Paducah) and stronger regional demand. Only Madison approaches these rent levels.
Ownership costs rival high rents
McCracken renters pay $861 monthly (16.6% of income) while owners spend nearly identical $851, both sums reflecting a competitive housing market. The median home value of $182,900 positions homeownership as a modest step up from renting but still substantial for a $62,385 household.
McCracken offers amenities at a price
McCracken's higher costs reflect a more developed regional economy (Paducah), so compare the $861 rent against job opportunities and services before deciding. If rural affordability matters more than urban access, Marion ($731) or Marshall ($773) offer better value.
Cost of Living Advisory: McCracken County
Affordability Verdict
McCracken County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $861/month — about 16.6% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in McCracken County is $861/month, while owner costs run $851/month. Owning saves approximately $10/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $36,471/year. With a median household income of $62,385, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in McCracken County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Livingston County where rent averages $912/month, McCracken County is approximately 6% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in McCracken County
Rent Burden
16.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,456
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.4%
of gross income
The median home in McCracken County may be a stretch
Median home value is $182,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,460 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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