Cost of Living in Meade County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Meade County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Meade County ranks #767 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 24%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Meade County, Kentucky
Meade County rents strain household budgets
Meade County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.7% sits just below Kentucky's state average of 17.0% but significantly exceeds the national norm. Renters here pay $976 monthly on a median household income of $70,163, placing housing costs well above the affordable threshold.
Middle of the Kentucky pack
Meade County's 16.7% rent-to-income ratio places it near the state average of 17.0%, making it a middle-tier option for housing affordability in Kentucky. Neither a bargain nor particularly expensive, Meade reflects statewide cost pressures.
Costlier rents than nearby counties
Meade's $976 monthly rent is the highest among its regional neighbors—nearly 60% above McLean County's $602 and well above Menifee County's $634. This rent premium reflects higher housing demand and values in Meade, where the median home price reaches $195,000.
Housing costs: rent vs. ownership
Renters in Meade County spend $976 monthly (16.7% of income), while homeowners face an $893 monthly cost with a median home value of $195,000. Housing consumes a notably larger share of household budgets here compared to more affordable counties in the region.
Budget carefully in Meade County
Meade County's housing costs run near the state average, making it a reasonable option for those with steady incomes but not ideal for budget-conscious relocators. Compare rent and home prices carefully against nearby McLean or Menifee before committing to a move.
Cost of Living Advisory: Meade County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Meade County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $976/month in gross rent, with 24.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $976/month rent versus $893/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $83/month cheaper — a 9% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $39,040/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $38,271/year. With a median household income of $70,163, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Meade County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Kentucky, Meade County is more affordable than Livingston County by roughly 7% ($976/mo vs $912/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Meade County
Rent Burden
16.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,637
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Meade County
Median home value is $195,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,557 vs. your max of $1,637.
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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