Cost of Living in El Dorado County, California
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How El Dorado County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
El Dorado County ranks #1,616 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 49%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in El Dorado County, California
El Dorado beats national affordability
Renters in El Dorado County spend just 18.4% of income on housing, well below the national norm and significantly better than California's 22.4% average. With a median household income of $106,190—42% above the national median of $74,755—El Dorado residents have more breathing room in their budgets than most Americans.
Among California's most affordable
El Dorado County ranks as one of California's most housing-friendly markets, with a rent-to-income ratio of 18.4% compared to the state average of 22.4%. This advantage reflects both strong local incomes and relatively moderate housing costs for the region.
Sierra foothill affordability edge
El Dorado's median rent of $1,626 is comparable to neighboring Alpine and Amador counties, but its significantly higher median income of $106,190 makes housing more affordable here than in surrounding mountain communities. Renters pay 18.4% of income toward housing versus over 20% in most adjacent counties.
Where El Dorado incomes go
El Dorado renters dedicate about $1,626 monthly to rent while homeowners face $2,190 in monthly ownership costs, with a median home value of $640,500. The median household income of $106,190 absorbs these costs comfortably, leaving 18.4% for housing and 81.6% for other expenses.
Consider El Dorado for stability
If you're relocating from a high-cost coastal area, El Dorado offers genuine affordability without sacrificing income potential—the county's $106,190 median income suggests strong job prospects. Compare this against similarly-priced homes in neighboring counties to see how El Dorado's wage advantage translates to real financial relief.
Cost of Living Advisory: El Dorado County
Affordability Verdict
El Dorado County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,626/month representing approximately 18.4% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 33.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,626/month rent versus $2,190/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $564/month cheaper — a 26% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $65,040/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $93,857/year. With a median household income of $106,190, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 33.0% of renter households in El Dorado County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Sacramento County where rent averages $1,702/month, El Dorado County is approximately 4% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in El Dorado County
Rent Burden
18.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,478
per month
Owner Cost Burden
24.7%
of gross income
The median home in El Dorado County may be a stretch
Median home value is $640,500. Estimated monthly cost: $5,113 vs. your max of $2,478.
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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