Cost of Living in Erie County, New York
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Erie County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Erie County, New York
Erie holds stable rent affordability
Erie County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.5% sits just below the national 28% comfort threshold, with median rent at $1,037 monthly. At $71,175 median household income, Erie residents maintain solid affordability despite rents above many smaller upstate counties.
Close to New York's state average
Erie's 17.5% rent-to-income ratio nearly mirrors New York's 17.6% average, with median rents of $1,037—just $96 below the state median. This positions Erie as representative of mid-tier New York affordability.
Buffalo-area pricing moderate regionally
Erie's $1,037 rent runs roughly 13% above neighboring upstate counties like Cortland and Chenango but remains $485 cheaper than Dutchess County. Median home values of $217,400 reflect Erie's status as an urban anchor county with significant housing stock.
Urban affordability with reasonable costs
Erie residents earning $71,175 spending $1,037 on rent allocate 17.5% of income to housing, a balanced approach in an urban setting. Homeowners pay $1,125 monthly, or 18.9% of income, keeping ownership achievable for moderate-income households.
Urban access with modest affordability
Erie offers families earning $65,000–$80,000 a combination of urban amenities and moderate housing costs that compare favorably to other major metros. At 17.5%, Erie's rent ratio delivers reasonable value for those seeking city services without premium pricing.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Erie County
Rent Burden
17.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,661
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.0%
of gross income
The median home in Erie County may be a stretch
Median home value is $217,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,736 vs. your max of $1,661.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Erie County, New York?
What is the median rent in Erie County?
Is Erie County affordable?
How does Erie County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Erie County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Erie County, New York? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in Erie 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.