Cost of Living in Jefferson County, New York
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jefferson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Jefferson County ranks #2,465 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 22%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jefferson County, New York
Jefferson County's housing squeeze
Jefferson County residents spend 22.4% of income on rent—the highest ratio in this survey and significantly above both national and state averages. With median household income of $64,978 and median rent of $1,214 monthly, housing costs strain household budgets.
Above-average housing burden
Jefferson County's 22.4% rent-to-income ratio substantially exceeds New York's 17.6% state average, making it a housing-cost outlier among upstate counties. Median rent of $1,214 approaches state average despite below-average county income, intensifying affordability pressure.
Priciest rent in the region
Jefferson County's $1,214 median rent far exceeds all upstate neighbors—$400 more than Herkimer County and $200 more than Greene County. This rental premium creates the region's most challenging affordability landscape.
Housing claims large income share
Jefferson County renters earning the median $64,978 annually pay $1,214 monthly—over 22% of gross income, leaving only 78% for other essential expenses. Homebuyers face a median monthly owner cost of $1,076 and median home value of $181,000, presenting significant affordability challenges.
Jefferson demands housing caution
Relocating to Jefferson County requires careful budget planning, as the 22.4% rent-to-income ratio exceeds state average and strains household finances. The median rent of $1,214 makes other upstate counties significantly more affordable alternatives for budget-conscious movers.
Cost of Living Advisory: Jefferson County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Jefferson County is affordable. The median rent is $1,214/month against a median household income of $64,978, putting rent at 22.4% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,214/month rent versus $1,076/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $138/month cheaper — a 11% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $48,560/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $46,114/year. With a median household income of $64,978, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Jefferson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Jefferson County sits 5% more expensive than Schenectady County ($1,159/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jefferson County
Rent Burden
22.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,516
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Jefferson County
Median home value is $181,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,445 vs. your max of $1,516.
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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