Cost of Living in Wolfe County, Kentucky
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Wolfe County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Wolfe County ranks #48 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 2%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Wolfe County, Kentucky
Wolfe County: the state's poorest match
Wolfe County's rent-to-income ratio of 20.9% represents one of the nation's worst housing affordability scenarios, driven by an exceptionally low median household income of $29,052. At $507 monthly rent, even modest housing costs consume over one-fifth of residents' limited earnings.
Kentucky's most challenged county
Wolfe County's 20.9% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the absolute worst in Kentucky, far exceeding the state average of 17.0%. The county faces a fundamental economic challenge: extremely limited household incomes make even affordable rents feel burdensome.
The region's deepest crisis
Wolfe County's $29,052 median income stands dramatically below neighboring counties—less than half of Union ($60,989) or Warren ($64,801). Its 20.9% rent burden edges out even Whitley (20.7%), making it the most strained housing market in the region.
20.9% of minimal income to shelter
Wolfe County residents spend approximately $507 monthly—20.9% of a median household income of just $29,052—on rent, leaving only $1,897 for all other expenses. Homeowners pay $391 monthly on properties valued near $66,400, Kentucky's lowest median home price, yet this represents a heavy burden on minimal incomes.
Reconsider unless work brings you
Wolfe County's 20.9% rent burden reflects deeper economic challenges rooted in limited job opportunities and minimal wages across the county. Only relocate here if you've secured employment that significantly exceeds the county median income—otherwise, the housing burden will prove unsustainable.
Cost of Living Advisory: Wolfe County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Wolfe County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $507/month in gross rent, with 39.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $507/month rent versus $391/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $116/month cheaper — a 23% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $20,280/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $16,757/year. With a median household income of $29,052, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 39.0% of renter households in Wolfe County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Wolfe County sits 15% more expensive than Martin County ($441/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Wolfe County
Rent Burden
20.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$678
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Wolfe County
Median home value is $66,400. Estimated monthly cost: $530 vs. your max of $678.
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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