Average Rent in Union County, KY↑ Rents rising 1.8% YoY
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 13,379
Market Overview
Union County, KY has rental prices ranging from $636/month to $1,172/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $674/month — 52% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $60,989/year, spending $674/month on a 1-bedroom represents 13% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Union County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $884/month, Union County ranks #32 most expensive of the 98 cities tracked in Kentucky — more affordable than 79% of all US cities in our data.
The Union County Rental Market
The Union County, KY area has a population of about 13,379 and 28% 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 Union County, KY have risen by $16/month (1.8%) over the past year, from $868 to $884. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Union County, KY without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $26,960. The local median household income of $60,989 exceeds that threshold by $34,029, making Union County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Union County, KY has an unemployment rate of 4.8%, 0.9 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 Union 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 Union County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Union County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Union 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 Union CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in KYSee how Union County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Union CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
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