Cost of Living in Powell County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Powell County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Powell County, Kentucky
Powell County struggles on dual fronts
Powell County renters spend 22.4% of income on housing versus the national average of roughly 18%, but face an even steeper income challenge: median household income is just $39,811, making it the lowest in the regional sample. This low-income, high-burden combination creates acute affordability stress.
Second-lowest income, high housing cost
Powell County's rent-to-income ratio of 22.4% exceeds Kentucky's average of 17%, while its median rent of $743 sits below state average. The real crunch comes from the lowest median household income ($39,811) among the comparison group, amplifying housing's burden regardless of absolute rent levels.
Lowest income despite moderate rents
Powell County's $743 rent is among the region's lowest, yet its $39,811 median household income is the lowest by far—$2,900 below Pike County and $12,500 below Rowan. Powell residents earn least but still strain under housing costs others manage more easily.
Ownership costs exceed rental burden
Powell presents an unusual challenge: monthly owner costs of $666 actually consume 20.1% of household income, higher than the 22.4% renters pay—despite a median home value of $142,400 that seems reasonable. This suggests homeowners here carry disproportionately high mortgages relative to local earnings.
Powell County needs income growth most
Powell's affordable rents ($743) become unmanageable due to the lowest median income in the region, suggesting relocation may help more than shopping for cheaper housing locally. Comparing neighboring Russell County (same median rent, $10,700 more income) or Rockcastle (lower rent, higher income) could provide immediate relief if employment transfers are feasible.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Powell County
Rent Burden
22.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$929
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.1%
of gross income
The median home in Powell County may be a stretch
Median home value is $142,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,137 vs. your max of $929.
Rent Affordability Guide
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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.