Cost of Living in Pulaski County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Pulaski County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Pulaski County ranks #851 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 27%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Pulaski County, Kentucky
Pulaski balances affordability reasonably well
Pulaski County renters spend 19.7% of their $50,943 income on housing, modestly above the national average of roughly 18% but closer than most regional peers. With median rent at $835 and household income above the regional average, Pulaski demonstrates relative stability in the eastern Kentucky housing market.
Slightly above state average for rents
Pulaski County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.7% exceeds Kentucky's 17% average, but the county's median household income of $50,943 is above state norms, providing more cushion than struggling neighbors. Median rent of $835 runs 8% higher than the state average, reflecting Pulaski's relative economic strength.
Mid-range costs, above-average income
Pulaski County's $835 rent ties with Pike County as the regional high, but Pulaski's $50,943 median income outpaces all comparison counties except Robertson and Rowan. This income advantage makes Pulaski's housing more manageable despite higher absolute rent prices.
Renters and owners both reasonably positioned
Renters in Pulaski spend $835 monthly (19.7% of income), while homeowners carry $687 mortgages at 16.2% of household income—a modest 3.5-point gap favoring ownership. Median home value of $156,300 reflects Pulaski's relative economic strength compared to neighboring eastern Kentucky counties.
Pulaski offers stable middle ground
If you're considering eastern Kentucky, Pulaski County offers above-average income potential and moderate rental costs that align with regional norms better than struggling Pike or Powell counties. The county's $156,300 median home value and 16.2% owner cost-to-income ratio also make homeownership competitive for those ready to build equity.
Cost of Living Advisory: Pulaski County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Pulaski County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $835/month in gross rent, with 29.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Pulaski County is $835/month, while owner costs run $687/month. Owning saves approximately $148/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $33,400/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $29,443/year. With a median household income of $50,943, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Pulaski County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Barren County where rent averages $784/month, Pulaski County is approximately 7% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Pulaski County
Rent Burden
19.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,189
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.2%
of gross income
The median home in Pulaski County may be a stretch
Median home value is $156,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,248 vs. your max of $1,189.
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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