Cost of Living in Warren County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Warren County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Warren County ranks #2,401 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 24%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Warren County, Kentucky
Warren County: pricier than the nation
Warren County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.8% edges above the national standard, reflecting higher housing costs relative to local income. At $963 monthly rent against a median household income of $64,801, renters here spend a slightly larger share of earnings on housing than the typical American household.
Among Kentucky's higher-cost counties
Warren County's 17.8% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Kentucky's state average of 17.0%, making it one of the pricier markets in the commonwealth. The county's higher housing costs reflect its role as a regional economic hub, centered on Bowling Green.
A premium within the region
Warren County's $963 rent significantly outpaces Union County ($787) and Washington County ($696), reflecting stronger demand and a larger urban center. Home values also climb here, with median prices near $242,600—well above most neighboring counties.
Nearly 18% of income to rent
Warren County renters dedicate roughly $963 monthly—about 17.8% of median income—to housing, leaving $4,400 for other expenses. Homeowners invest more substantially, with monthly costs averaging $1,094 on properties valued around $242,600.
Warren offers growth but at a cost
Moving to Warren County means trading affordability for access to Bowling Green's jobs and services—a worthwhile tradeoff for many. Compare this county's 17.8% housing burden against lower-cost options like Washington County before deciding.
Cost of Living Advisory: Warren County
Affordability Verdict
Warren County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $963/month — about 17.8% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Warren County is $963/month, while owner costs run $1,094/month. Renting saves approximately $131/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,520/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $46,886/year. With a median household income of $64,801, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Warren County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Livingston County where rent averages $912/month, Warren County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Warren County
Rent Burden
17.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,512
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.3%
of gross income
The median home in Warren County may be a stretch
Median home value is $242,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,937 vs. your max of $1,512.
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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