Cost of Living in Owen County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Owen County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Owen County ranks #434 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 14%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Owen County, Kentucky
Owen County Offers Sound Affordability
Owen County's 15.6% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below Kentucky's 17.0% state average, while monthly rent of $775 runs nearly $1 above the state median. At $59,706 annual income, Owen residents earn above most rural Kentucky counties, allowing them to carry housing costs efficiently.
Upper-Half Affordability in Kentucky
Owen County ranks in Kentucky's upper half for housing affordability, combining moderate incomes with restrained rents to produce a favorable rent-to-income ratio. The county's 15.6% burden puts residents in stronger position than the statewide average.
Owen Balances Rent and Neighborhood Value
Owen's $775 monthly rent matches Nicholas County's ($654) affordability advantage while exceeding Nicholas in median home value ($165,000 vs. $119,600), suggesting stronger property appreciation potential. Compared to Pendleton ($800) and Ohio County ($774), Owen offers competitive pricing in a stable market.
Balanced Housing Investment
At $59,706 annual income, Owen residents allocate about 15.6% to rent and 14.8% to mortgage costs—both well below problematic thresholds. This leaves substantial room for savings, transportation, childcare, and emergency funds.
Owen Suits Families Seeking Stability
If you're relocating with modest-to-moderate income and prioritize stability over urban amenities, Owen County delivers good value with reasonable rents and achievable homeownership. Your housing costs will likely shrink relative to income, freeing funds for family needs and long-term building.
Cost of Living Advisory: Owen County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Owen County is affordable. The median rent is $775/month against a median household income of $59,706, putting rent at 15.6% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $775/month rent versus $736/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $39/month cheaper — a 5% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,000/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $31,543/year. With a median household income of $59,706, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in Owen County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Owen County sits 6% less expensive than Ballard County ($826/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Owen County
Rent Burden
15.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,393
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Owen County
Median home value is $165,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,317 vs. your max of $1,393.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Owen County, Kentucky?
What is the median rent in Owen County?
Is Owen County affordable?
How does Owen County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Owen County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Owen County, Kentucky? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Owen 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.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.