Cost of Living in Preble County, Ohio
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Preble County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Preble County ranks #833 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 26%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Preble County, Ohio
Preble leads Ohio on affordability
Preble County's 13.5% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest among these eight counties and well below the national average, delivering genuine affordability for renters. With a median household income of $71,237 and modest $803 monthly rent, Preble residents enjoy breathing room in their budgets.
Among Ohio's most affordable counties
Preble's 13.5% rent-to-income ratio ranks 2.1 percentage points below Ohio's 15.6% state average, placing it firmly in the state's most livable markets. The county combines below-average rent ($803) with solid income levels, a rare combination in rural Ohio.
Southern Ohio's affordability champion
Preble's $803 rent undercuts Pike ($833), Ross ($858), and Pickaway ($965), while its median income of $71,237 exceeds all three—a double advantage. Only Putnam offers better overall affordability metrics in this regional comparison.
Housing leaves income for other needs
Preble renters spend just $803 monthly on a median $71,237 annual income, dedicating only 13.5% to rent—well below the national comfort zone. Homebuyers commit $932 monthly, or 15.7% of income, leaving substantial room for savings and other expenses.
Move to Preble for maximum breathing room
If housing affordability is your priority, Preble County offers one of Ohio's sweetest combinations: low rent, solid incomes, and manageable cost-burden ratios. Compare Preble against Putnam and Sandusky to confirm it matches your income and lifestyle expectations.
Cost of Living Advisory: Preble County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Preble County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $803/month in gross rent, with 24.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $803/month rent versus $932/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $129/month cheaper — a 14% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $39,943/year. With a median household income of $71,237, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Preble County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Preble County sits 7% more expensive than Paulding County ($750/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Preble County
Rent Burden
13.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,662
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Preble County
Median home value is $171,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,366 vs. your max of $1,662.
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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