RentData

Average Rent in Nelson County, KY↑ Rents rising 0.6% YoY

HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 47,102

Data review: HUD FY2027Sources: HUD, Zillow, Census, BLSMethodologyEditorial standardsReport a correction

Market Overview

Nelson County, KY has rental prices ranging from $777/month to $1,587/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $781/month — 44% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $67,888/year, spending $781/month on a 1-bedroom represents 14% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Nelson County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,022/month, Nelson County ranks #22 most expensive of the 107 cities tracked in Kentucky — pricier than 51% of all US cities in our data.

The Nelson County Rental Market

The Nelson County, KY area has a population of about 47,102 and 23% 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 Nelson County, KY have risen by $6/month (0.6%) over the past year, from $1,016 to $1,022. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Nelson County, KY without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $31,240. The local median household income of $67,888 exceeds that threshold by $36,648, making Nelson County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Nelson County, KY has an unemployment rate of 5.1%, 1.2 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.

Fair Market Rents

HUD FY2027
Studio
$777
Affordable
1 Bedroom
$781
Affordable
2 Bedrooms
$1,022
↑0.6% YoY
Affordable
3 Bedrooms
$1,302
Affordable
4 Bedrooms
$1,587
Affordable
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Is Nelson County, KY Affordable?

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

Affordability Index(30% income rule)

To rent a 2BR
$40,880/year
Local median income: $67,888
To buy a median home
—/year
US national median: $75,000
💡 Based on a 2BR rent of $1,022/month and 20% down on a — home at 7% rate.

Nearby Cities in KYlargest metros in the state

CityStudio1BR2BR3BRHome Value
Grant County$840$899$1,146$1,365—
Meade County$799$804$1,052$1,443—
Lexington$986$1,205$1,416$1,948—
Carter County$745$749$909$1,246—
Huntington$858$864$1,006$1,287—
Clarksville$1,061$1,068$1,307$1,786—

Rent or Buy in Nelson County?

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

Should I Rent or Buy?

Break-even analysis using real Nelson County data

$
Home Value
$350,000
2BR Rent
$1,022/mo
Mortgage Rate
7%
Monthly P&I
$1,863/mo
🏠 Buy

Buying breaks even after 4 years — worth it if you stay 4+ years.

Total monthly buy cost: $2,577/movs rent: $1,022/mo
Estimates only. Excludes HOA, PMI (if <20% down), closing costs, and tax benefits. Assumes 5% return on invested down payment.

Living in Nelson County

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

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🏘️Neighborhoods in Nelson County

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💵Rent Affordability in Nelson County

Salary needed to afford rent here

🗺️All Cities in KY

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⚖️Compare Nelson County

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📋KY Tenant Rights

Deposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections