Cost of Living in Hamilton County, New York
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Hamilton County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Hamilton County ranks #373 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 12%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Hamilton County, New York
Hamilton County: best rent ratio yet
Hamilton County residents spend just 15.0% of income on rent—the lowest ratio among upstate counties and well below both national and state averages. With median household income of $68,950 and rent at $860 monthly, the county provides exceptional housing value.
Top affordability tier statewide
Hamilton County's 15.0% rent-to-income ratio ranks among New York's best, with median rent of $860 undercutting the state's $1,133 average by a significant margin. The county delivers genuine affordability within a state where housing typically claims larger income shares.
Matches Franklin's rental value
Hamilton County's $860 rent aligns closely with Franklin County ($819), positioning both as the region's rental bargains. With a 15.0% rent-to-income ratio, Hamilton edges ahead of most peers, though the county's $242,000 median home value reflects steeper property costs than rental pricing suggests.
Rent and ownership both accessible
Hamilton County renters earning the median $68,950 annually spend $860 monthly on rent, consuming 15% of gross income. Homebuyers face a median monthly owner cost of $805 and median home value of $242,000, making ownership costs lower than rents—an unusual advantage.
Hamilton: upstate value leader
Hamilton County combines the region's best rent-to-income ratio (15.0%) with surprisingly affordable ownership—monthly owner costs run just $805 against median home value of $242,000. For relocators balancing renting flexibility against ownership opportunity, the county delivers exceptional value.
Cost of Living Advisory: Hamilton County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Hamilton County is affordable. The median rent is $860/month against a median household income of $68,950, putting rent at 15.0% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Hamilton County pay $860/month on average, compared to $805/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 6%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,400/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $34,500/year. With a median household income of $68,950, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Hamilton County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Hamilton County sits 6% less expensive than Cortland County ($911/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Hamilton County
Rent Burden
15.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,609
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.0%
of gross income
The median home in Hamilton County may be a stretch
Median home value is $242,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,932 vs. your max of $1,609.
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
What is the cost of living in Hamilton County, New York?
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What is the median home value in Hamilton County?
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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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