Cost of Living in Navajo County, Arizona
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Navajo County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Navajo County ranks #2,554 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 19%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Navajo County, Arizona
Navajo County offers rare affordability
Navajo County's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio beats the national average, making it one of Arizona's most affordable places to rent relative to income. At $832 monthly rent and a $52,752 median household income, renters here spend less on housing than their national counterparts.
Below-average rents statewide
Navajo County's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below Arizona's 19.4% state average, and its $832 median rent undercuts the state's $1,016 baseline. This rural county delivers genuine housing relief for Arizona residents prioritizing affordability.
Navajo stands out for low rents
At $832 monthly, Navajo County's median rent is the lowest among the seven-county comparison—$215 cheaper than Mohave and $426 less than Yavapai. Even accounting for lower median incomes, Navajo County's rent-to-income ratio remains among the state's most balanced.
Renters and owners both find relief
Navajo County renters pay $832 monthly while homeowners spend $505, both well below state averages for housing costs. The $52,752 median household income means renters dedicate just 18.9% of earnings to housing, leaving more for other needs.
Navajo County: remote work's best-kept secret
If you work remotely or are relocating with portable income, Navajo County's $832 median rent is Arizona's bargain baseline. Compare this affordable foundation to job opportunities in your field before committing to a rural transition.
Cost of Living Advisory: Navajo County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Navajo County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $832/month in gross rent, with 22.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $832/month rent versus $505/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $327/month cheaper — a 39% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $33,280/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $21,643/year. With a median household income of $52,752, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 22.0% of renter households in Navajo County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Santa Cruz County where rent averages $781/month, Navajo County is approximately 7% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Navajo County
Rent Burden
18.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,231
per month
Owner Cost Burden
11.5%
of gross income
The median home in Navajo County may be a stretch
Median home value is $186,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,486 vs. your max of $1,231.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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