Cost of Living in Montgomery County, New York
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Montgomery County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Montgomery County ranks #2,538 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 19%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Montgomery County, New York
Montgomery County matches state affordability
Renters spend exactly 17.6% of income on housing, matching New York's state average precisely, though household incomes are notably lower at $62,923. Median rent of $921 per month sits just below the state average of $1,133, but the lower income base makes the burden feel heavier for working families.
Middle tier affordability with lower incomes
Montgomery County's rent-to-income ratio mirrors the state average, but the county's lower-than-average median household income places it at a disadvantage compared to wealthier regions. At $62,923, the median household income trails the state's general profile, making housing feel less affordable on real terms.
Rent comparable, income lagging behind
Montgomery's $921 rent falls in the middle range of neighbors, but its $62,923 median income is the lowest among nearby counties—Lewis ($68,329), Livingston ($72,464), and Madison ($73,141) all earn more. This income disadvantage makes housing more burdensome, despite rent costs remaining reasonable.
Tight margins on modest incomes
With median household income of $62,923, residents spend roughly $11,052 yearly on rent (17.6%) and $12,012 on ownership costs if mortgaged. The lower income base means less discretionary spending available after housing costs compared to neighbors, creating tighter household budgets overall.
Montgomery County: affordable but income-conscious
Montgomery offers reasonable rents and homes near $141,600, but the lower median income of $62,923 suggests tight household budgets even at these moderate costs. Relocators should verify job prospects and wage levels carefully before moving; affordability here hinges heavily on finding well-compensated work.
Cost of Living Advisory: Montgomery County
Affordability Verdict
Montgomery County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $921/month representing approximately 17.6% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 30.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Montgomery County pay $921/month on average, compared to $1,001/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 8%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,840/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $42,900/year. With a median household income of $62,923, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Montgomery County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Montgomery County sits 6% more expensive than Niagara County ($870/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Montgomery County
Rent Burden
17.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,468
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Montgomery County
Median home value is $141,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,130 vs. your max of $1,468.
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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