Cost of Living in Genesee County, New York
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Genesee County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Genesee County ranks #1,932 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 39%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Genesee County, New York
Genesee tops national affordability
Genesee County residents spend just 15.1% of income on rent, outpacing both the national average and New York's state average of 17.6%. With median household income of $72,055—near the national median—and rent at $909 monthly, the county delivers genuine housing stability.
Best value in upstate New York
Genesee County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.1% ranks among the state's best, significantly undercutting New York's $1,133 median rent. The county combines above-average income with below-average housing costs, a rare combination within New York.
Outperforms peers in the region
Genesee County's 15.1% rent-to-income ratio beats nearby Fulton County (16.9%) and Franklin County (15.4%), making it the regional leader. At $909 monthly rent, the county undercuts Greene County ($993) while maintaining higher median household income than most neighbors.
Income-to-housing balance
Genesee County renters earning the median $72,055 annually pay $909 monthly, consuming just 15% of gross income and leaving 85% for other costs. For homebuyers, the median monthly owner cost of $1,078 against median home value of $157,800 creates accessible ownership pathways.
Genesee County: affordability leader
If housing affordability drives your relocation decision, Genesee County ranks at the top of New York's upstate markets with 15.1% rent-to-income and median home values of $157,800. The county's above-average income combined with moderate housing costs makes it an exceptional value proposition.
Cost of Living Advisory: Genesee County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Genesee County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $909/month in gross rent, with 27.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Genesee County pay $909/month on average, compared to $1,078/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 16%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,360/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $46,200/year. With a median household income of $72,055, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Genesee County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Genesee County sits 6% more expensive than Schuyler County ($858/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Genesee County
Rent Burden
15.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,681
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Genesee County
Median home value is $157,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,260 vs. your max of $1,681.
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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