Cost of Living in Livingston County, New York
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Livingston County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Livingston County ranks #1,464 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 47%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Livingston County, New York
Livingston County remains comfortably affordable
At 15.1%, renters' rent-to-income ratio sits well below the national average and 2.5 points better than New York's state average of 17.6%. Median rent of $912 per month is significantly lower than the state's $1,133, offering genuine relief for households balancing expenses.
Solid affordability standing in New York
Livingston County maintains a competitive position among New York counties, with renters spending less than 16% of income on housing. The county's median rent-to-income ratio outpaces the state average, making it attractive for those seeking to escape pricier regions without relocating far.
Mid-range rents among upstate peers
At $912 monthly, Livingston sits between Lewis County's $821 and Madison County's $891, offering a middle ground in the region. Mortgage costs of $1,078 are slightly higher than Lewis but lower than Madison's $1,124, reflecting comparable property values in the $169,600–$176,800 range.
Balanced costs on solid incomes
Households earn a median of $72,464 annually and allocate roughly $10,944 to rent (15.1%) and $12,936 to ownership costs if mortgaged. This leaves healthy margins for savings and other expenses, with housing costs tracking nearly 2 points below state average.
Livingston invites families seeking stability
With median homes valued at $169,600 and rents 19% below state average, Livingston County offers a sweet spot for relocating families who want affordability without remote-area isolation. Stack its 15.1% rent-to-income ratio against your current housing burden and see if the move pencils out.
Cost of Living Advisory: Livingston County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Livingston County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $912/month in gross rent, with 31.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Livingston County pay $912/month on average, compared to $1,078/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 15%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,480/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $46,200/year. With a median household income of $72,464, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Livingston County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within New York, Livingston County is more affordable than Hamilton County by roughly 6% ($912/mo vs $860/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Livingston County
Rent Burden
15.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,691
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Livingston County
Median home value is $169,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,354 vs. your max of $1,691.
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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