Cost of Living in Bronx County, New York
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Bronx County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Bronx County, New York
Bronx rents consume wages entirely
Bronx County residents spend 35.1% of their income on rent—more than double the national average of 17.0%—with a median household income of just $49,036, trailing the national median by $25,719. This creates a severe affordability crisis where housing costs dominate household budgets.
New York's least affordable county
Bronx County ranks as the least affordable county in New York, with a rent-to-income ratio of 35.1% versus the state average of 17.6%. The median rent of $1,436 exceeds the state average by $303, compounded by the lowest median household income in this profile at just $49,036.
New York City's affordability trap
Bronx renters pay $1,436 monthly, nearly matching Manhattan rents and far exceeding outer boroughs like Staten Island while earning significantly less than Brooklyn or Queens residents. Home values at $517,000 represent the highest in this analysis, yet remain inaccessible to the majority earning less than $50,000 annually.
Housing squeezes every household
Renters dedicate a punishing 35.1% of the $49,036 median income to $1,436 monthly rent, while homeowners face even steeper costs at 43.5% ($1,777/month). This forces residents to choose between housing and food, childcare, healthcare, and transportation.
Consider outer boroughs or suburbs
If you're earning under $50,000 and seeking New York City proximity, Bronx County may force housing insecurity—explore Queens, Brooklyn, or Westchester alternatives where affordability ratios drop toward 25–30%. Remote workers might find genuine relief by relocating to Upstate counties where your income stretches three to five times further.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Bronx County
Rent Burden
35.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,144
per month
Owner Cost Burden
43.5%
of gross income
The median home in Bronx County may be a stretch
Median home value is $517,000. Estimated monthly cost: $4,127 vs. your max of $1,144.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.