Cost of Living in Chautauqua County, New York
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Chautauqua County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Chautauqua County ranks #2,459 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 22%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Chautauqua County, New York
Chautauqua offers solid affordability
Chautauqua County residents spend 16.9% of income on rent, below the national average of 17.0%, with a median household income of $56,507 running about $18,000 below the national median. Despite lower wages, the county's housing costs remain remarkably reasonable, supporting household financial stability.
Affordable New York outpost
Chautauqua County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.9% sits comfortably below New York's state average of 17.6%, ranking it among the state's more affordable counties. The $797 median rent costs $336 less than the state average, delivering genuine savings for renters.
Western NY affordability tier
Chautauqua's $797 rent sits between Allegany/Cattaraugus's sub-$760 markets and Broome's $914, positioned as an affordable option in western New York's rural belt. Home values of $119,300 remain accessible for working-class homebuyers seeking equity-building opportunities.
Housing leaves room to breathe
Renters dedicate 16.9% of the $56,507 median income to $797 monthly rent, while homeowners spend 16.7% on ownership ($785/month). Both figures sit below national and state averages, preserving household resources for savings, healthcare, and family needs.
Lake-country living on budget
If you're seeking western New York's lakeside communities and small-town character without financial strain, Chautauqua County delivers exceptional affordability alongside natural beauty. Homebuyers can achieve ownership under $120,000; renters enjoy sub-17% housing burdens—a rarity across America.
Cost of Living Advisory: Chautauqua County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Chautauqua County is affordable. The median rent is $797/month against a median household income of $56,507, putting rent at 16.9% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Chautauqua County pay $797/month on average, compared to $785/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 2%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,880/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $33,643/year. With a median household income of $56,507, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Chautauqua County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Chautauqua County sits 6% less expensive than Delaware County ($848/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Chautauqua County
Rent Burden
16.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,318
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Chautauqua County
Median home value is $119,300. Estimated monthly cost: $952 vs. your max of $1,318.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Chautauqua County, New York?
What is the median rent in Chautauqua County?
Is Chautauqua County affordable?
How does Chautauqua County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Chautauqua County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Chautauqua County, New York? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Chautauqua County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.