Cost of Living in Madison County, Ohio
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Madison County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Madison County ranks #1,811 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 42%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Madison County, Ohio
Madison County rents beat national trends
Madison County renters spend 13.6% of their income on housing—below the national comfort threshold of 15%—and earn $8,474 more annually than the U.S. median. This county outperforms most of America on housing affordability for renters.
Among Ohio's most affordable counties
Madison County's 13.6% rent-to-income ratio ranks well below Ohio's 15.6% state average, placing it in the top tier for rental affordability across the state. Median rent of $944 exceeds the state average by $71, but wages here are strong enough to make it manageable.
Rent advantage over surrounding areas
Madison County's $944 median rent is competitive with neighboring Miami County ($942) but higher than more rural Mercer County ($812). Still, Madison residents earn significantly more than most peers, stretching their affordability advantage further.
Where Madison paychecks go
The typical Madison County household earning $83,229 annually allocates $944 to rent or $1,247 to mortgage payments monthly. Renters spend about 13.6% of income on housing while homeowners spend 18% on mortgage costs, both reasonable by national standards.
Madison County welcomes budget-conscious relocators
If you're considering a move to Ohio, Madison County offers solid affordability paired with above-average incomes—a rare combination. Compare its rental rates and home values against neighboring counties to find your best fit in the region.
Cost of Living Advisory: Madison County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Madison County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $944/month in gross rent, with 26.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Madison County pay $944/month on average, compared to $1,247/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 24%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $37,760/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $53,443/year. With a median household income of $83,229, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Madison County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Madison County sits 6% more expensive than Clinton County ($893/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Madison County
Rent Burden
13.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,942
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Madison County
Median home value is $231,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,847 vs. your max of $1,942.
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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Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
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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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