Cost of Living in Pike County, Ohio
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Pike County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Pike County ranks #1,517 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 48%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Pike County, Ohio
Pike stretches renters' budgets beyond comfort
Pike County's 20.2% rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds the national norm, driven by a median household income of just $49,552—33% below the national median of $74,755. For Pike renters, housing consumes a larger share of already-modest earnings than most Americans face.
Ohio's least affordable county here
Pike's 20.2% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Ohio's worst, standing 4.6 percentage points above the state average of 15.6%. The county's low median income, not low rents, drives this affordability crisis—a structural income challenge rather than a market excess.
Lowest rent, lowest income too
Pike's $833 median rent is the cheapest among these eight counties, but residents earn far less than neighbors like Pickaway ($72,927) and Putnam ($82,785). While Pike's rental costs are bargain-basement, its $49,552 median income makes even cheap rent feel expensive.
Income shortfall drives affordability strain
Pike renters pay $833 monthly on incomes averaging $49,552 annually, dedicating 20.2% to rent alone—nearly at the federal threshold for cost-burden. Homebuyers face $759 monthly payments, consuming 18.4% of income, leaving tight margins for other necessities.
Consider Pike carefully if wages matter
Pike offers some of Ohio's lowest rents, but the county's income levels suggest limited job markets compared to higher-earning neighbors. If you're relocating for work, compare Pike's wage opportunities against more affluent counties like Putnam or Pickaway before committing.
Cost of Living Advisory: Pike County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Pike County is affordable. The median rent is $833/month against a median household income of $49,552, putting rent at 20.2% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Pike County pay $833/month on average, compared to $759/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 9%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $33,320/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $32,529/year. With a median household income of $49,552, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Pike County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Ohio, Pike County is less affordable than Champaign County by roughly 6% ($833/mo vs $884/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Pike County
Rent Burden
20.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,156
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.4%
of gross income
The median home in Pike County may be a stretch
Median home value is $148,500. Estimated monthly cost: $1,186 vs. your max of $1,156.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Pike County, Ohio?
What is the median rent in Pike County?
Is Pike County affordable?
How does Pike County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Pike County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Pike County, Ohio? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Pike County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.