Cost of Living in Steuben County, New York
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Steuben County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Steuben County ranks #1,475 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 47%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Steuben County, New York
Steuben rents stay below national norm
Steuben County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.3% sits below the national average, indicating residents spend less of their income on housing than typical U.S. households. With median rent at $878 and household income of $64,740—roughly 13% below the national median—this county delivers solid affordability.
Below-average housing burden in New York
Steuben County's 16.3% rent-to-income ratio beats New York's statewide average of 17.6%, positioning it among the more affordable counties in the state. The $878 median rent costs $255 less than the state typical, a meaningful difference for household budgets.
Middle ground among upstate peers
Steuben County's $878 rent falls between Tioga ($914) and St. Lawrence ($799), making it a moderate-cost option in the upstate cluster. Its 16.3% rent-to-income ratio compares favorably to Seneca (16.8%) and Tioga (15.3%), reflecting consistent regional affordability.
Balanced costs for renters and owners
Monthly rent averages $878 while homeownership costs $924—remarkably similar figures reflecting an accessible market for both paths. A median household income of $64,740 means residents dedicate about 16% of earnings to rent, leaving ample room for savings and living expenses.
Stable affordability in Steuben County
Steuben County combines sub-$900 median rent with a $129,000 median home value, making it accessible for both renters and first-time buyers. If you're relocating from higher-cost New York regions, this county offers 22% cheaper rent than the state average while maintaining competitive ownership costs.
Cost of Living Advisory: Steuben County
Affordability Verdict
Steuben County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $878/month representing approximately 16.3% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 27.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $878/month rent versus $924/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $46/month cheaper — a 5% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $35,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $39,600/year. With a median household income of $64,740, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Steuben County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Wayne County where rent averages $929/month, Steuben County is approximately 5% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Steuben County
Rent Burden
16.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,511
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Steuben County
Median home value is $128,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,027 vs. your max of $1,511.
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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