Cost of Living in Mono County, California
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Mono County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Mono County ranks #2,653 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 16%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Mono County, California
Mono's incomes don't match housing costs
Mono County's rent-to-income ratio of 22.0% approaches the national danger zone, even though the county's median household income of $86,953 is 16% higher than the national average. Renters here spend $1,593 monthly on housing—nearly 22 cents of every earned dollar.
Right at California's affordability waterline
Mono County's 22.0% rent-to-income ratio sits just below California's state average of 22.4%, putting it squarely in the middle of the affordability pack. Despite higher-than-average incomes, the county's steep housing costs keep affordability tight.
Pricey mountain county, premium prices
Mono's median gross rent of $1,593 exceeds neighboring Nevada County ($1,635) by far less than its home values suggest—at $514,300, Mono homes cost less than Nevada's ($602,800). The rental market here reflects Mono's appeal as a mountain destination, pricing out many year-round residents.
Housing claims nearly half of income
Mono renters spend 22% of their $86,953 median income on rent ($1,593/month), while homeowners commit 29.5% to ownership costs ($2,141/month)—a severe burden. For homeowners especially, Mono's housing costs squeeze tight despite the county's relatively strong income levels.
Mono appeals to well-paid mountain lovers
If mountain living and outdoor recreation matter more than maximizing savings, Mono's higher incomes help offset steep housing costs. But renters and especially homebuyers should expect to dedicate a substantial share of earnings to housing here.
Cost of Living Advisory: Mono County
Affordability Verdict
Mono County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,593/month — about 22.0% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Mono County is $1,593/month, while owner costs run $2,141/month. Renting saves approximately $548/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $63,720/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $91,757/year. With a median household income of $86,953, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Mono County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within California, Mono County is more affordable than Stanislaus County by roughly 4% ($1,593/mo vs $1,528/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Mono County
Rent Burden
22.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,029
per month
Owner Cost Burden
29.5%
of gross income
The median home in Mono County may be a stretch
Median home value is $514,300. Estimated monthly cost: $4,106 vs. your max of $2,029.
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 Mono County, California?
What is the median rent in Mono County?
Is Mono County affordable?
How does Mono County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Mono County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Mono County, California? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Mono 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.