Cost of Living in Butte County, California
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Butte County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Butte County ranks #2,599 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 17%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Butte County, California
Butte County's affordability comes with trade-offs
Butte County's median income of $68,574 falls below the national median by 8%, yet its rent-to-income ratio of 24.0% exceeds national norms by 2 percentage points. Renters spend $1,369 monthly—a modest absolute cost shadowed by the fact that lower incomes stretch that payment further.
Above-average rent burden statewide
Butte's 24.0% rent-to-income ratio ranks in California's least-affordable third, exceeding the state average of 22.4% by 1.6 points. The median rent of $1,369 appears reasonable in isolation, but combined with the county's lower median income, it signals tighter household finances than neighboring counties.
Butte struggles against regional peers
Butte's rent-to-income ratio of 24.0% trails Colusa (18.2%) and Amador (20.3%), despite a median rent just $11 more than Colusa's $1,139. The income disadvantage—$68,574 vs. $81,526 in Amador—makes Butte's housing costs bite harder in absolute terms.
Tighter margins in Butte households
Renters dedicate $1,369 monthly while owners pay $1,401—nearly identical burdens on just $68,574 annual income. Combined, housing consumes roughly 48% of gross earnings, leaving only 52% for all other expenses, transportation, and emergency savings.
Butte for the determined budget-builder
If you earn $50,000–$75,000 and value small-town Northern California living, Butte offers modest rents and $408,700 homes—lower absolute costs than most of California. However, the higher rent-to-income burden means you'll need disciplined budgeting; consider Colusa for even tighter affordability without the income penalty.
Cost of Living Advisory: Butte County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Butte County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,369/month in gross rent, with 35.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Butte County pay $1,369/month on average, compared to $1,401/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 2%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $54,760/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $60,043/year. With a median household income of $68,574, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 35.0% of renter households in Butte County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Madera County where rent averages $1,307/month, Butte County is approximately 5% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Butte County
Rent Burden
24.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,600
per month
Owner Cost Burden
24.5%
of gross income
The median home in Butte County may be a stretch
Median home value is $408,700. Estimated monthly cost: $3,263 vs. your max of $1,600.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Butte County, California?
What is the median rent in Butte County?
Is Butte County affordable?
How does Butte County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Butte County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Butte County, California? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Butte County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.