Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Ohio
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jefferson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Jefferson County ranks #1,810 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 42%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Ohio
Jefferson County: Below National Affordability
At 16.7%, Jefferson County's rent-to-income ratio sits above the national baseline, indicating tighter housing affordability than typical U.S. households. With median household income of $56,983—roughly 24% below the national median of $74,755—renters and homebuyers here face steeper cost burdens relative to their earnings.
More Expensive Than Ohio Average
Jefferson County's 16.7% rent-to-income ratio edges above Ohio's 15.6% state average, despite median rent of $792 sitting $81 below the statewide median of $873. This means lower absolute housing costs don't fully offset the county's lower incomes, making affordability comparatively tighter.
Affordable Rents, Tight Budgets
Jefferson County offers some of the lowest rents in this Ohio region at $792/month, undercutting neighbors like Lucas County ($911) and Lake County ($1,073). However, residents earn significantly less than adjacent counties, making percentage-of-income costs a more acute squeeze despite lower nominal rent.
Housing Takes 16.7% of Income
Renters spend $792 monthly on gross rent while homeowners carry $704 in monthly owner costs—both modest in absolute dollars but substantial relative to the $56,983 median household income. Combined with other living expenses, housing consumes a meaningful share of Jefferson County household budgets.
Consider Jefferson if Value Matters
Jefferson County appeals to renters seeking affordability on a tighter budget, with rents among the lowest in the region. However, prospective homebuyers should compare the $120,600 median home value against neighboring counties' options to ensure long-term equity potential.
Cost of Living Advisory: Jefferson County
Affordability Verdict
Jefferson County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $792/month representing approximately 16.7% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 28.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Jefferson County pay $792/month on average, compared to $704/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 11%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $30,171/year. With a median household income of $56,983, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Jefferson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Columbiana County where rent averages $736/month, Jefferson County is approximately 8% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jefferson County
Rent Burden
16.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,330
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Jefferson County
Median home value is $120,600. Estimated monthly cost: $963 vs. your max of $1,330.
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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