Cost of Living in Knox County, Ohio
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Knox County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Knox County ranks #1,227 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 39%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Knox County, Ohio
Knox County: Near National Affordability Norm
Knox County's 15.0% rent-to-income ratio beats the national average, supported by a median household income of $73,988—nearly matching the U.S. median of $74,755. Housing costs here align closely with national affordability benchmarks, making it a solid middle ground for cost-conscious relocators.
Ohio's Affordability Sweet Spot
At 15.0%, Knox County ranks below Ohio's 15.6% state average for rent-to-income ratio, placing it among the more affordable counties statewide. Median rent of $925 runs $52 above the state median, but stronger incomes here offset that cost premium.
Mid-Range Rents, Strong Earnings
Knox County's $925 median rent falls squarely between lower-cost Jefferson ($792) and higher-cost Lake ($1,073), while its $73,988 median income exceeds all nearby comparisons. This income-to-rent balance makes Knox County competitive for both renters and potential homebuyers.
Balanced Housing and Income
Monthly rent of $925 and owner costs of $1,050 consume 15.0% and roughly 17% of median income respectively, leaving Knox County households with breathing room for other expenses. The $218,300 median home value reflects strong property equity potential in the region.
Knox Offers Stability and Value
Knox County is ideal for families balancing affordability with homeownership ambitions, offering incomes and housing costs closely aligned with national norms. Explore Knox if you want region mid-range pricing without sacrificing earning potential.
Cost of Living Advisory: Knox County
Affordability Verdict
Knox County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $925/month representing approximately 15.0% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 29.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $925/month rent versus $1,050/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $125/month cheaper — a 12% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $37,000/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $45,000/year. With a median household income of $73,988, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Knox County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Knox County sits 7% more expensive than Henry County ($866/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Knox County
Rent Burden
15.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,726
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.0%
of gross income
The median home in Knox County may be a stretch
Median home value is $218,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,743 vs. your max of $1,726.
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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