Cost of Living in Monroe County, Ohio
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Monroe County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Monroe County, Ohio
Monroe County punches above its weight
Monroe County renters spend just 12.7% of their income on housing—below the national 15% threshold—despite earning $15,793 below the U.S. median. This rural county achieves surprising affordability through exceptionally low housing costs.
Ohio's third-most affordable county
Monroe County's 12.7% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Ohio's best, sitting nearly 2.9 percentage points below the state average of 15.6%. With the lowest median rent of $626 in this analysis, Monroe delivers remarkable affordability.
Deepest discount in the region
Monroe County's $626 median rent is dramatically lower than any peer county—Meigs ($704) is the second-lowest but still $78 higher. The trade-off is lower wages at $58,962, but the housing savings more than compensate.
Monroe's minimal housing burden
The median Monroe County household earning $58,962 annually spends just $626 on rent or $589 on mortgage costs monthly. Both renters (12.7%) and homeowners (12%) allocate minimal portions of income to housing—extraordinary by any standard.
Monroe County for serious savers
Monroe County's rock-bottom rents make it ideal for relocators prioritizing maximum savings and lower cost of living. Verify job availability and wage levels carefully, but if you can secure stable employment, Monroe offers unmatched housing affordability.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Monroe County
Rent Burden
12.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,376
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Monroe County
Median home value is $132,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,054 vs. your max of $1,376.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.