Cost of Living in Ontario County, New York
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Ontario County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Ontario County, New York
Ontario's rent ratio stays below national stress
Ontario County residents spend 16.9% of their income on rent, well below the national affordability crisis threshold and among the healthiest ratios statewide. With a median household income of $79,814—higher than the national average—Ontario residents have solid earning power relative to housing costs.
One of New York's more affordable options
Ontario County's 16.9% rent-to-income ratio outperforms the state average of 17.6%, positioning it among New York's more livable housing markets. The median rent of $1,126 sits modestly above the state average, reflecting a slight price premium justified by better incomes and affordability metrics.
Ontario leads region in balanced affordability
Ontario's $1,126 rent ranks between Onondaga ($1,067) and the costlier Putnam County markets, while its 16.9% rent-to-income ratio beats the state average. The county offers higher earning potential than Oneida or Oswego while maintaining comparable affordability to its regional peers.
Strong incomes offset slightly higher rents
Ontario households earn $79,814 annually—$5,059 above the national median—while paying $1,126 in rent, resulting in a healthy 16.9% housing-cost ratio. Owner costs of $1,199 per month remain manageable relative to this county's stronger wage base.
Ontario rewards higher earners seeking value
If your household income exceeds state medians, Ontario County delivers strong affordability with above-average earnings and rent-to-income ratios better than the state. The combination of $79,814 median income and 16.9% rent burden makes it an attractive alternative to pricier downstate counties.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Ontario County
Rent Burden
16.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,862
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Ontario County
Median home value is $202,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,620 vs. your max of $1,862.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.