Cost of Living in Butler County, Ohio
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Butler County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Butler County ranks #2,811 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 11%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Butler County, Ohio
Butler's rent burden tops national average
Butler County residents spend 16.2% of their income on rent, outpacing the nation's typical 15% threshold and signaling tighter affordability than most American counties. With a median household income of $81,194—well above the national median of $74,755—Butler's higher rent-to-income ratio reflects both stronger local earnings and competitive housing costs across the region.
Slightly above Ohio's affordability benchmark
Butler's 16.2% rent-to-income ratio sits just above Ohio's state average of 15.6%, placing it in the middle tier of Ohio county affordability. The county's median rent of $1,098 exceeds Ohio's average by 26%, reflecting its position as a more economically vibrant region within the state.
Higher rent, higher incomes nearby
Butler County's median rent of $1,098 is notably higher than Clermont County ($1,040) and Carroll County ($780), though Butler's stronger median income of $81,194 helps offset the cost premium. Among its regional peers, Butler remains competitive but positioned as the pricier option for renters seeking stability and employment.
Housing takes 16.2% of Butler paychecks
Renters in Butler County allocate roughly $1,098 monthly, while homeowners carry mortgage costs averaging $1,247—both substantial but manageable on the county's $81,194 median household income. The typical home value of $243,000 reflects a balanced market where housing costs remain within reach for most middle-income households.
Consider Butler for income-boosted affordability
If you're relocating to Ohio and prioritize stronger wage potential, Butler County offers above-average earnings that help offset its higher housing costs. Compare Butler's rent-to-income ratio of 16.2% against nearby options like Carroll County (14.5%) or Clermont County (15.0%) to find your best fit.
Cost of Living Advisory: Butler County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Butler County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,098/month in gross rent, with 28.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Butler County is $1,098/month, while owner costs run $1,247/month. Renting saves approximately $149/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $43,920/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $53,443/year. With a median household income of $81,194, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Butler County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Clermont County where rent averages $1,040/month, Butler County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Butler County
Rent Burden
16.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,895
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.4%
of gross income
The median home in Butler County may be a stretch
Median home value is $243,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,940 vs. your max of $1,895.
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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