Average Rent in Jefferson County, IN↑ Rents rising 7.6% YoY
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 33,074
Market Overview
Jefferson County, IN has rental prices ranging from $638/month to $1,563/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $798/month — 43% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $59,987/year, spending $798/month on a 1-bedroom represents 16% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Jefferson County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $931/month, Jefferson County ranks #42 most expensive of the 77 cities tracked in Indiana — more affordable than 60% of all US cities in our data.
The Jefferson County Rental Market
The Jefferson County, IN area has a population of about 33,074 and 31% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Jefferson County, IN have risen by $66/month (7.6%) over the past year, from $865 to $931. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Jefferson County, IN without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $31,920. The local median household income of $59,987 exceeds that threshold by $28,067, making Jefferson County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Jefferson County, IN has an unemployment rate of 3.6%, 0.3 percentage points below the national average of 3.9%. Strong employment conditions typically sustain rental demand, as workers relocate to the area and local residents maintain stable housing.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Jefferson County, IN 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 INlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gary | $860 | $985 | $1,197 | $1,475 | — |
| Franklin County | $727 | $802 | $1,052 | $1,389 | — |
| Cincinnati | $883 | $993 | $1,287 | $1,707 | — |
| Anderson | $759 | $803 | $1,054 | $1,379 | — |
| Indianapolis | $955 | $1,097 | $1,283 | $1,669 | — |
| Louisville | $1,003 | $1,094 | $1,330 | $1,714 | — |
Rent or Buy in Jefferson County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Jefferson County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Jefferson 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 Jefferson CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in INSee how Jefferson County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Jefferson CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋IN Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections