Cost of Living in Lake County, Ohio
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lake County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Lake County ranks #1,665 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 47%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lake County, Ohio
Lake County: High Costs, Higher Incomes
Lake County's 16.5% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the national benchmark, though its $77,952 median household income runs 4% above the U.S. median of $74,755. Residents here earn more but also pay considerably more for housing than the typical American household.
Priciest County in This Cohort
Lake County tops this region with a $1,073 median rent—23% above Ohio's $873 state average—pushing its 16.5% rent-to-income ratio above the state average of 15.6%. The premium reflects Lake County's position as a higher-cost suburban market.
Premium Pricing for Suburban Appeal
Lake County's $1,073 rent substantially exceeds Jefferson ($792), Lawrence ($830), and Logan ($832), reflecting its more developed suburban infrastructure and amenities. At $199,900, median home values also rank among the region's highest, signaling strong market demand.
16.5% of Income Goes to Rent
Renters allocate $1,073 monthly to gross rent—16.5% of the $77,952 median income—while homeowners carry $1,135 in monthly costs, roughly 17.5% of household earnings. Despite higher absolute costs, Lake County's above-average incomes keep percentage-based affordability reasonable.
Lake County for Suburban Comfort
Lake County suits higher-earning professionals seeking suburban amenities and above-average schools, with strong incomes to support elevated housing costs. If you prioritize community infrastructure and don't need minimum-cost housing, Lake County rewards earned income.
Cost of Living Advisory: Lake County
Affordability Verdict
Lake County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,073/month representing approximately 16.5% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 28.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Lake County pay $1,073/month on average, compared to $1,135/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 5%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $42,920/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $48,643/year. With a median household income of $77,952, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Lake County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Geauga County where rent averages $1,018/month, Lake County is approximately 5% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lake County
Rent Burden
16.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,819
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Lake County
Median home value is $199,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,596 vs. your max of $1,819.
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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