Average Rent in Laurel County, KY↑ Rents rising 7.0% YoY

Laurel County, KY has rental prices ranging from $674/month to $1,315/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $749/month — 46% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $56,999/year, spending $749/month on a 1-bedroom represents 16% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Laurel County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $943/month, Laurel County ranks #37 most expensive of the 107 cities tracked in Kentucky — more affordable than 83% of all US cities in our data.

The Laurel County Rental Market

The Laurel County, KY area has a population of about 62,731 and 29% 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 Laurel County, KY have risen by $62/month (7.0%) over the past year, from $881 to $943. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Laurel County, KY without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $29,960. The local median household income of $56,999 exceeds that threshold by $27,039, making Laurel County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Laurel County, KY has an unemployment rate of 6.1%, 2.2 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.

Is Laurel County, KY Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Rent or Buy in Laurel County?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Living in Laurel County

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.