Average Rent in Jackson County, KY↑ Rents rising 2.0% YoY🔻 2nd cheapest in KY
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 13,003
Market Overview
Jackson County, KY has rental prices ranging from $624/month to $1,194/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $661/month — 53% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $41,410/year, spending $661/month on a 1-bedroom represents 19% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Jackson County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $867/month, Jackson County ranks #97 most expensive of the 98 cities tracked in Kentucky — more affordable than 90% of all US cities in our data.
The Jackson County Rental Market
The Jackson County, KY area has a population of about 13,003 and 20% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Jackson County, KY have risen by $17/month (2.0%) over the past year, from $850 to $867. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Jackson County, KY without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $26,440. The local median household income of $41,410 exceeds that threshold by $14,970, making Jackson County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Jackson County, KY has an unemployment rate of 8.3%, 4.4 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Jackson County, KY Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in KYlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grant County | $759 | $848 | $1,098 | $1,323 | — |
| Lexington | $799 | $982 | $1,165 | $1,583 | — |
| Carter County | $657 | $661 | $867 | $1,215 | — |
| Huntington | $844 | $850 | $971 | $1,259 | — |
| Clarksville | $916 | $976 | $1,229 | $1,722 | — |
| Bowling Green | $882 | $993 | $1,173 | $1,413 | — |
Rent or Buy in Jackson County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Jackson County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Jackson County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Jackson CountySalary needed to afford rent here
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