Cost of Living in Oswego County, New York
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Oswego County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Oswego County ranks #2,303 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 27%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Oswego County, New York
Oswego's housing costs stay well-balanced
Oswego County residents spend 16.5% of their income on rent, below the national affordability stress threshold and among New York's healthier markets. With a median household income of $68,461, the county keeps housing accessible despite below-average earnings.
Better than state average on affordability
Oswego County's 16.5% rent-to-income ratio beats the state average of 17.6%, positioning it as one of New York's more livable housing markets. The median rent of $943 runs $190 below state average, delivering meaningful monthly savings for typical households.
Oswego competes with Western NY's best
Oswego's $943 rent sits between Orleans ($877) and Onondaga ($1,067), while its 16.5% ratio ties with Orleans for the region's best affordability metrics. The county offers a middle-ground option between Western and Central New York's housing markets.
Modest income supports manageable housing
Oswego households earn $68,461 annually and dedicate just 16.5% to rent at $943 per month, leaving room for other necessities. Owner costs of $1,061 remain reasonable for the income level, making both renting and buying sustainable options.
Oswego offers solid Lake Ontario value
Relocating to Oswego puts you in one of New York's most affordable counties with a 16.5% rent-to-income ratio matching Orleans. Compared to pricier options like Orange County (19.9%) or even Ontario (16.9%), Oswego delivers genuine affordability without sacrificing regional amenities.
Cost of Living Advisory: Oswego County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Oswego County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $943/month in gross rent, with 29.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $943/month rent versus $1,061/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $118/month cheaper — a 11% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $37,720/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $45,471/year. With a median household income of $68,461, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Oswego County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Oswego County sits 6% more expensive than Madison County ($891/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Oswego County
Rent Burden
16.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,597
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Oswego County
Median home value is $139,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,114 vs. your max of $1,597.
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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