Cost of Living in Monroe County, New York
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Monroe County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Monroe County ranks #2,723 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 13%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Monroe County, New York
Monroe County's affordability edges above state
At 18.2%, renters' rent-to-income ratio slightly exceeds New York's state average of 17.6%, though it remains close to national norms around 18%. Median rent of $1,126 per month mirrors the state average of $1,133, making Monroe a mid-tier option in New York's housing landscape.
Middle ground in New York housing costs
Monroe County's rent-to-income ratio sits near the state average, placing it in the moderate tier of New York affordability. At $74,409 median household income, Monroe households earn slightly more than the state median, offsetting modest cost-of-living pressures.
Costlier than nearby rural counties
Monroe's $1,126 rent is measurably higher than Niagara County ($870), Lewis County ($821), and Madison County ($891), reflecting Rochester's larger urban footprint. Similarly, ownership costs of $1,272 and median home values near $197,100 outpace most rural neighbors, though remain well below Long Island and Manhattan.
Housing takes its slice of the budget
Households earn $74,409 annually and dedicate roughly $13,512 to rent (18.2%) and $15,264 to ownership costs if mortgaged. At 18.2%, the rent-to-income ratio edges above the state average, meaning less cushion for savings compared to more affordable upstate markets.
Monroe County: urban amenities at regional prices
Monroe offers Rochester's urban services and job market at costs higher than rural upstate but far below New York City and Long Island—homes average $197,100 with rents near state average. If you value city access over bargain hunting, Monroe's 18.2% rent-to-income ratio may justify the trade-off.
Cost of Living Advisory: Monroe County
Affordability Verdict
Monroe County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,126/month representing approximately 18.2% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 30.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Monroe County is $1,126/month, while owner costs run $1,272/month. Renting saves approximately $146/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $45,040/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $54,514/year. With a median household income of $74,409, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Monroe County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Monroe County sits 5% less expensive than Rensselaer County ($1,182/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Monroe County
Rent Burden
18.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,736
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Monroe County
Median home value is $197,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,574 vs. your max of $1,736.
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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