Cost of Living in Muskingum County, Ohio
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Muskingum County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Muskingum County, Ohio
Muskingum: Affordable Rents, Below-Average Income
Muskingum County renters spend 16.4% of their income on rent, slightly above the national 15% standard, while earning $59,203 annually—about 21% below the national average of $74,755. The affordable rent of $811 per month reflects Muskingum's rural character, even as lower incomes keep affordability ratios elevated.
Muskingum Lags Ohio's Affordability Average
At 16.4%, Muskingum's rent-to-income ratio exceeds Ohio's 15.6% average, ranking it among the state's less affordable counties despite modest rents. The gap reflects a combination of limited local employment and wages trailing both state and county medians, creating affordability pressure even in a low-cost market.
Cheapest Rents But Income Constraints
Muskingum's $811 median rent is the lowest among peer counties like Morgan ($713), though Muskingum's $59,203 median income is higher than Morgan's $55,971—the higher rent-to-income ratio results from income-to-housing misalignment. Owner costs at $888 run mid-range, making Muskingum attractive for renters but less advantageous for homebuyers relative to deeper-rural alternatives.
Income Pressure Drives Affordability Challenge
The $811 monthly rent consumes 16.4% of Muskingum's $59,203 median income, while homeowners dedicate 18.0% to their $888 monthly cost—both figures strain household budgets more than in higher-income counties. Limited wage growth in the region means residents here must budget carefully to cover other necessities alongside housing.
Muskingum for Cost-Conscious Renters
Muskingum County offers some of Ohio's cheapest rents at $811 monthly, ideal for remote workers or retirees with income from outside the county. If you're tied to local employment, however, Muskingum's 16.4% rent-to-income ratio and limited job market make it riskier—compare first with slightly pricier but economically stronger rural counties like Morrow or Perry.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Muskingum County
Rent Burden
16.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,381
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Muskingum County
Median home value is $170,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,358 vs. your max of $1,381.
Rent Affordability Guide
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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.