Average Rent in Kentucky: $1,324/mo (2026)

Find fair market rent prices for 2 major metro areas in Kentucky. The average 2-bedroom rent across the state is $1,324/mo.

$896
Avg. Studio
$1,074
Avg. 1BR
$1,324
Avg. 2BR
$1,665
Avg. 3BR
2
Cities Tracked
$1,272
Lowest 2BR Rent
$1,375
Highest 2BR Rent

Major Cities in Kentucky

Sorted by 2-bedroom rent price (highest to lowest)

1
Lexington, KY
Studio: $825 | 1BR: $1,100 | 3BR: $1,705
$1,375/mo2BR
2
Louisville, KY
Studio: $966 | 1BR: $1,047 | 3BR: $1,625
$1,272/mo2BR

Explore Kentucky Rent Data

Browse detailed rent prices for cities across Kentucky. Each city page includes neighborhood breakdowns, rent trends, and local market insights.

Lexington Rent PricesLouisville Rent Prices

Kentucky Rental Market Overview

The fair market rent (FMR) data for Kentucky is published annually by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These figures represent the 40th percentile of gross rents for standard quality rental housing in each metro area.

Kentucky has 2 major metropolitan areas tracked in our database. The most expensive city for renters is Lexington, KY with an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,375/mo, while the most affordable is Louisville, KY at $1,272/mo.

What Affects Rent Prices in Kentucky?

  • Location: Proximity to employment centers and urban amenities significantly impacts rent prices across Kentucky metros.
  • Local Economy: Job growth and industry presence drive rental demand. Strong employment markets typically have higher rents.
  • Housing Supply: Areas with new construction tend to have more rental options and potentially competitive pricing.
  • Schools: Quality school districts command premium rents, especially for family-sized apartments.
  • Transportation: Access to highways and public transit affects neighborhood desirability and pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kentucky Rent

What is the average rent in Kentucky?

The average rent in Kentucky is $1,324 per month for a 2-bedroom apartment based on 2026 HUD Fair Market Rent data. Prices range from $1,272 in Louisville to $1,375 in Lexington.

What is the cheapest city to rent in Kentucky?

Louisville, KY offers the most affordable rent among major Kentucky metros at $1,272/month for a 2-bedroom apartment. Studios in Louisville average $966/month.

What is the most expensive city to rent in Kentucky?

Lexington, KY has the highest rents in Kentucky at $1,375/month for a 2-bedroom apartment. This is $51 above the state average.

How much do I need to earn to rent in Kentucky?

To comfortably afford the average Kentucky 2-bedroom at $1,324/month, you would need an annual income of approximately $52,960 (based on the 30% of income guideline). For the most affordable areas, you would need about $50,880/year.

Is Kentucky affordable for renters?

Kentucky offers moderate rental costs, with average 2-bedroom rents at $1,324/month. Some cities offer excellent value while others command premium prices.