Cost of Living in Nelson County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Nelson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Nelson County ranks #1,137 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 36%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Nelson County, Kentucky
Nelson Balances Higher Costs with Strong Income
Nelson County residents earn $67,888 median annually—significantly above the national average of $74,755—yet their 16.5% rent-to-income ratio remains competitive. At $932 monthly, rent is higher than state average ($771) but paired with above-average earnings, keeping affordability in healthy territory.
Upper-Middle Tier for Kentucky Affordability
Nelson County ranks among Kentucky's more prosperous regions, with a rent-to-income ratio just below the state average and household income well above statewide norms. This positions Nelson as one of the state's more economically stable counties.
Premium Pricing in a Premium County
Nelson's median rent of $932 tops most surrounding counties—Owen County ($775) and Oldham County ($1,142) are the main exceptions—reflecting Nelson's reputation as a desirable region. Home values of $224,100 also outpace nearby Nicholas County ($119,600) and Muhlenberg ($121,300), signaling stronger demand.
Owner Costs Match Rent in Nelson County
At $67,888 annual income, Nelson residents spend approximately 16.5% on rent and 16.7% on mortgage costs—a balanced split that suggests healthy financial flexibility. Median home value reaches $224,100, accessible to those earning at or above the county median through conventional financing.
Nelson Offers Growth and Stability
If you're seeking a Kentucky county with strong job prospects and above-average incomes, Nelson delivers—though expect to pay somewhat more than rural neighbors. Your housing costs remain reasonable relative to earnings, making this an attractive option for career-focused relocators.
Cost of Living Advisory: Nelson County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Nelson County is affordable. The median rent is $932/month against a median household income of $67,888, putting rent at 16.5% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $932/month rent versus $944/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $12/month cheaper — a 1% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $37,280/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $40,457/year. With a median household income of $67,888, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Nelson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Kentucky, Nelson County is more affordable than Henry County by roughly 7% ($932/mo vs $871/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Nelson County
Rent Burden
16.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,584
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.7%
of gross income
The median home in Nelson County may be a stretch
Median home value is $224,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,789 vs. your max of $1,584.
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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