Cost of Living in McCreary County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How McCreary County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in McCreary County, Kentucky
McCreary confronts real affordability strain
McCreary County residents spend 18.9% of income on rent—well above Kentucky's 17% average and edging toward the national affordability crisis threshold. The median household income of $37,355 creates genuine hardship despite bargain $588 monthly rents.
Above-average housing burden
McCreary's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Kentucky's 17.0% state average by nearly 2 percentage points, placing it in the stressed tier of county affordability. This burden reflects very low household income relative to even modest regional rents.
Second-lowest income in region
McCreary's $37,355 median income ranks second-lowest after Magoffin ($33,632), making housing costs proportionally heavier despite $588 rent being moderate for the area. The income constraint, not housing prices, drives affordability stress.
Low rents can't offset low income
McCreary renters spend $588 monthly (18.9% of income) while owners manage better at $472, but both situations strain a $37,355 median household budget. The median home value of $77,000 is lowest in the region but still difficult for jobless or underemployed families.
McCreary: cheap housing, limited jobs
McCreary's $588 rent and $77,000 median home price are among the region's lowest, but the $37,355 median income signals economic struggle. Unless you have external income (remote work, pensions), compare job prospects in Martin ($46,185) or Magoffin ($33,632) before settling.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in McCreary County
Rent Burden
18.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$872
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in McCreary County
Median home value is $77,000. Estimated monthly cost: $615 vs. your max of $872.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in McCreary County, Kentucky?
What is the median rent in McCreary County?
Is McCreary County affordable?
How does McCreary County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in McCreary County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in McCreary County, Kentucky? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in McCreary 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.