Cost of Living in Herkimer County, New York
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Herkimer County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Herkimer County ranks #1,889 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 40%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Herkimer County, New York
Herkimer County: affordability champion
Herkimer County residents spend just 14.1% of income on rent—the lowest ratio in this survey and substantially below both national and state averages. With median household income of $68,858 and median rent of $811 monthly, the county represents exceptional housing value.
Most affordable rent ratio statewide
Herkimer County's 14.1% rent-to-income ratio sets the standard for New York affordability, with median rent of $811 far below the state's $1,133 average. The county delivers the state's most balanced housing-to-income equation.
Clear regional leader
Herkimer County's 14.1% rent-to-income ratio outperforms all upstate neighbors, with rent at just $811 monthly. The county's median home value of $135,000 pairs with this rental affordability to create the region's most comprehensive housing value proposition.
Maximum affordable housing
Herkimer County renters earning median income of $68,858 annually pay $811 monthly, consuming just 14% of gross income and maximizing discretionary spending. For homebuyers, the median monthly owner cost of $875 and median home value of $135,000 provide the region's most accessible ownership pathway.
Herkimer: best upstate value
If housing affordability tops your relocation priorities, Herkimer County wins decisively with a 14.1% rent-to-income ratio and median home value of $135,000. The county delivers maximum housing purchasing power while keeping rents at just $811 monthly.
Cost of Living Advisory: Herkimer County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Herkimer County is affordable. The median rent is $811/month against a median household income of $68,858, putting rent at 14.1% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $811/month rent versus $875/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $64/month cheaper — a 7% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $37,500/year. With a median household income of $68,858, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Herkimer County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Herkimer County sits 7% more expensive than Cattaraugus County ($759/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Herkimer County
Rent Burden
14.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,607
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Herkimer County
Median home value is $135,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,078 vs. your max of $1,607.
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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