Cost of Living in Guernsey County, Ohio
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Guernsey County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Guernsey County ranks #1,382 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 44%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Guernsey County, Ohio
Guernsey County stretches housing budgets
Guernsey County residents spend 17.3% of income on rent, above the national average of 15.6%, despite rural Ohio rents of just $803. Like nearby Gallia County, the real challenge here is depressed incomes: median household earnings of $55,756 rank among Ohio's lowest.
Rural affordability test: income matters more
Guernsey County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.3% exceeds Ohio's 15.6% state average, placing it among less affordable counties despite cheap rents. The median income of $55,756 is Ohio's second-lowest among these eight counties.
Cheap rent, tight squeeze
Guernsey County's $803 median rent nearly matches Gallia County's $798 and undercuts Fulton's $832, offering some of Ohio's cheapest housing. However, income levels ($55,756) are comparably depressed, making the affordability ratio still challenging.
Low rents can't overcome low wages
Renters here spend $803 monthly and homeowners $806 against median income of just $55,756, consuming 17% and 17% respectively. The absolute costs are manageable, but limited earnings make any housing expense feel substantial.
Guernsey County for remote workers only
Guernsey County's bargain rents appeal primarily to remote workers or retirees whose income arrives from outside the county. Local job seekers should carefully research Guernsey's limited employment landscape before relocating based on housing costs alone.
Cost of Living Advisory: Guernsey County
Affordability Verdict
Guernsey County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $803/month representing approximately 17.3% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 30.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Guernsey County is $803/month, while owner costs run $806/month. Renting saves approximately $3/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $34,543/year. With a median household income of $55,756, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Guernsey County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Guernsey County sits 7% more expensive than Paulding County ($750/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Guernsey County
Rent Burden
17.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,301
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Guernsey County
Median home value is $154,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,230 vs. your max of $1,301.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Guernsey County, Ohio?
What is the median rent in Guernsey County?
Is Guernsey County affordable?
How does Guernsey County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Guernsey County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Guernsey County, Ohio? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Guernsey County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.