Rent Affordability for Kentucky (2026)
Kentucky (KY) Key Facts
Average 1 B R Rent
$850
Median Monthly Income
$4,583
Recommended Max Rent (30% Rule)
$1,375
Affordability Gap
Affordable
Rent to Income Ratio
18.5%
How This Calculator Works in Kentucky
This rent affordability calculator helps you determine how much rent you can reasonably afford in Kentucky based on your income and the 30% rule. Enter your monthly income and desired rent to see whether your housing costs are within a healthy range. The calculator also shows how your situation compares to the Kentucky average.
Kentucky Overview
With a median household income of $55,000, Kentucky residents can afford roughly $1,375/month in rent under the 30% guideline. Average 1-bedroom rent is about $850/month. State income taxes in Kentucky reduce your take-home pay, so base your rent budget on net income rather than gross for a more realistic picture.
How Kentucky Compares
Kentucky's rent-to-income ratio of 18.5% is within the recommended 30% range. In neighboring Tennessee, the ratio is 22.8%. Nationally, about half of renters spend more than 30% of their income on housing, highlighting the widespread challenge of rental affordability.
| State | Top Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $1,100 | Average 1BR rent is $1,100 with median monthly income of $4,833. The 30% rule allows $1,450 for rent, which covers average rent. |
| Virginia | $1,400 | Average 1BR rent is $1,400 with median monthly income of $6,667. The 30% rule allows $2,000 for rent, which covers average rent. |
| Ohio | $900 | Average 1BR rent is $900 with median monthly income of $4,833. The 30% rule allows $1,450 for rent, which covers average rent. |
In Kentucky, the median household earns $55,000 annually ($4,583 per month). Using the 30% rule, the recommended maximum rent is $1,375 per month. With average 1BR rents at $850, rents are within the recommended affordability range. Nationally, about half of renters are considered cost-burdened (paying more than 30% of income on housing).
Tips for Kentucky Residents
- 1The 30% rule suggests spending no more than 30% of gross income on rent. In Kentucky, with a median household income of $55,000, the maximum recommended rent is about $1,375/month.
- 2Average 1-bedroom rent in Kentucky is roughly $850/month. This is within or near the 30% guideline for the median household, indicating reasonable affordability at the state level.
- 3State income taxes in Kentucky reduce your take-home pay, so base your rent budget on net income rather than gross for a more realistic picture.
- 4Beyond rent, budget for utilities ($100-$300/month), renters insurance ($15-$30/month), and any parking or pet fees. These can add 10-20% on top of your base rent in Kentucky.
- 5If you are spending more than 30% of income on rent in Kentucky, look into housing assistance programs such as Section 8 vouchers, state-funded rental assistance, or employer housing benefits.