Cost of Living in Lewis County, New York
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lewis County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lewis County, New York
Lewis County beats national affordability
Renters here spend just 14.4% of income on housing, well below the national norm and nearly 3 percentage points better than New York's state average of 17.6%. Median rent of $821 per month is less than half the state average of $1,133, making this one of the most affordable rental markets in the region.
Among New York's most affordable counties
Lewis County ranks among the state's best for housing affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio that undercuts the state average significantly. At $821 in median monthly rent against a $68,329 household income, the math works in residents' favor compared to pricier upstate alternatives.
Cheaper than nearby rural counties
Lewis County's $821 rent is notably lower than Niagara County ($870) and Madison County ($891), though slightly undercut by Livingston County's exceptional $912 rate. Homeownership costs tell a similar story: at $889 monthly, Lewis is the most affordable for mortgages among its immediate neighbors.
Modest housing burden, strong income base
The median household earns $68,329 annually, spending about $9,852 yearly on rent (14.4% of gross income) and $10,668 on ownership costs if mortgaged. This leaves ample room in the household budget compared to state and national averages, where renters often allocate 17–25% to housing.
Lewis County welcomes budget-conscious relocators
If you're pricing out of New York's expensive metros, Lewis County offers genuine affordability without sacrificing community—rent runs $312 below state average and homebuying at $158,000 median value is realistic for middle-income families. Compare this county's rent-to-income ratio to your current market and see the difference 3 percentage points can make.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lewis County
Rent Burden
14.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,594
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Lewis County
Median home value is $158,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,261 vs. your max of $1,594.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Lewis County, New York?
What is the median rent in Lewis County?
Is Lewis County affordable?
How does Lewis County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Lewis County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Lewis 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 Lewis 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.