Cost of Living in Santa Cruz County, Arizona
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Santa Cruz County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Santa Cruz County, Arizona
Santa Cruz beats national affordability
Santa Cruz County's 17.5% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest among the seven counties and well below national norms, delivering genuine affordability for renters. The median rent of just $781 monthly is a bargain, though the $53,614 household income reflects rural Arizona's wage reality.
Santa Cruz: Arizona's affordability champion
Santa Cruz County's 17.5% rent-to-income ratio is the best in the state comparison, beating Arizona's 19.4% average significantly. The $781 median rent is the lowest in the seven-county analysis, making Santa Cruz a genuine haven for rent-burdened Arizona residents.
Lowest rents in rural Arizona
Santa Cruz's $781 monthly rent undercuts Navajo County's $832 by $51 and stands nearly half Yavapai County's $1,258. Though median incomes are modest, Santa Cruz renters enjoy the state's most favorable ratio of rent-to-earnings.
Housing eats minimal income share
Santa Cruz renters pay $781 monthly while homeowners spend $955, with the $53,614 median income meaning renters devote just 17.5% to rent. This leaves significantly more breathing room in household budgets compared to state peers.
Santa Cruz for rural affordability seekers
Santa Cruz County is ideal for those prioritizing rock-bottom housing costs and don't require major metro job markets or urban amenities. Compare the $216,100 median home value and $781 rent against your current location; you may find substantial savings possible.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Santa Cruz County
Rent Burden
17.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,251
per month
Owner Cost Burden
21.4%
of gross income
The median home in Santa Cruz County may be a stretch
Median home value is $216,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,725 vs. your max of $1,251.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.