Average Rent in Cayuga County, NY↑ Rents rising 11.3% YoY

Cayuga County, NY has rental prices ranging from $820/month to $1,588/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $826/month — 41% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $66,583/year, spending $826/month on a 1-bedroom represents 15% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Cayuga County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,066/month, Cayuga County ranks #28 most expensive of the 41 cities tracked in New York — pricier than 72% of all US cities in our data.

The Cayuga County Rental Market

The Cayuga County, NY area has a population of about 75,464 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 Cayuga County, NY have risen by $108/month (11.3%) over the past year, from $958 to $1,066. This rate of increase is significant and reflects strong rental demand and limited housing supply in the local market.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Cayuga County, NY without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $33,040. The local median household income of $66,583 exceeds that threshold by $33,543, making Cayuga County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Cayuga County, NY has an unemployment rate of 4.0%, 0.1 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.

Neighborhoods

Home values — and by extension rent levels — vary significantly across Cayuga County's neighborhoods. Among the highest-value areas are Fair Haven ($245,891 median home value), Melrose Park ($274,850 median home value). Renters on a tighter budget may find better value in less central neighborhoods or in adjacent metros with lower overall rent levels.

Is Cayuga County, NY Affordable?

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

Rent or Buy in Cayuga County?

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

Living in Cayuga County

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