Cost of Living in Oldham County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Oldham County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Oldham County ranks #847 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 27%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Oldham County, Kentucky
Oldham Combines Wealth with Affordability
Oldham County earns distinction as Kentucky's most affluent county with $121,491 median household income—63% above the national average—while keeping rent-to-income ratios at just 11.3%, the lowest of any county studied. This rare combination means residents enjoy high incomes while spending the smallest percentage on rent.
Kentucky's Premier Affluent County
Oldham County ranks as the state's wealthiest and most housing-affordable per capita, driven by strong incomes that dwarf statewide norms. With both the highest median household income and lowest rent burden among Kentucky counties, Oldham stands apart.
Oldham Commands Premium Prices, Justifiably
Oldham's median rent of $1,142 and median home value of $375,000 far exceed all neighboring counties—Nelson ($224,100), Owen ($165,000), and Pendleton ($160,800)—reflecting its status as the region's economic center. Even so, the 11.3% rent-to-income ratio shows that high-earning residents carry lighter housing burdens.
Affluence Means Lower Housing Burden
Oldham residents earning $121,491 annually spend only 11.3% on rent ($1,142) and 16.5% on mortgage costs ($1,665)—ratios that would strain lower-income households but remain comfortable here. Over 70% of income remains available for investments, savings, and discretionary spending.
Oldham for the Upwardly Mobile
If your household earns six figures or close to it, Oldham County offers top-tier Kentucky schools, amenities, and surprisingly manageable housing costs relative to your income. High earners will find homes and communities matching their financial reach without the burden typical of expensive American metros.
Cost of Living Advisory: Oldham County
Affordability Verdict
Oldham County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,142/month — about 11.3% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,142/month rent versus $1,665/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $523/month cheaper — a 31% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $45,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $71,357/year. With a median household income of $121,491, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Oldham County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Campbell County where rent averages $1,079/month, Oldham County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Oldham County
Rent Burden
11.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,835
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.4%
of gross income
The median home in Oldham County may be a stretch
Median home value is $375,000. Estimated monthly cost: $2,994 vs. your max of $2,835.
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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