Cost of Living in Cattaraugus County, New York
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Cattaraugus County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Cattaraugus County, New York
Cattaraugus beats affordability benchmarks
Cattaraugus County residents spend just 15.6% of income on rent, well below the national average of 17.0%, despite a median household income of $58,248 that trails the national median by $16,507. The county's exceptional housing costs mean residents retain more income for savings and essentials.
Affordable among New York counties
Cattaraugus County ranks among New York's most affordable regions, with a rent-to-income ratio of 15.6%—below the state average of 17.6%. At $759 monthly, median rent costs $374 less than the state median, placing it in the county's affordability sweet spot.
Rural west NY affordability cluster
Cattaraugus rents of $759 are nearly identical to Allegany County ($754) and substantially cheaper than Chautauqua ($797), positioning the county within western New York's affordability corridor. Home values under $110,000 compete with the region's least expensive markets for genuine starter-home accessibility.
Income stretches across essentials
Renters dedicate just 15.6% of the $58,248 median income to $759 monthly rent, while homeowners spend 15.8% on ownership ($767/month). This leaves approximately 84% of household income for all other expenses—a luxury rare in high-cost regions.
Rural charm meets true affordability
If you prioritize affordability above urban amenities, Cattaraugus County delivers authentic rural living at genuine working-class prices—rent and home values that won't consume your paycheck. Homebuyers can achieve ownership for under $110,000; renters enjoy more breathing room than nearly any comparable U.S. county.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Cattaraugus County
Rent Burden
15.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,359
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Cattaraugus County
Median home value is $109,400. Estimated monthly cost: $873 vs. your max of $1,359.
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.