Cost of Living in Bent County, Colorado
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Bent County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Bent County ranks #2,274 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 28%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Bent County, Colorado
Rural plains, below-average costs
Bent County renters spend 20.8% of their income on housing—just below the national affordability line of 22%—despite a median household income of $49,194, well below the national average. Monthly rents of $854 reflect this rural southeastern county's modest cost of living.
Below-average affordability stress
Bent County's 20.8% rent-to-income ratio narrowly beats Colorado's 20.2% state average, with rents of $854/month running 32% below the state average of $1,253. This rural county offers genuine relief from the pricing pressures of Colorado's urban corridors.
Cheaper than mountains, pricier than plains
Bent's $854 rent sits between rural Baca County's $490 and mountain Archuleta County's $1,409, reflecting its middle position on Colorado's affordability spectrum. Home values of $137,900 remain modest, though higher than Baca's $122,000.
Renters and buyers affordably housed
A Bent County household earning the median $49,194 annually pays $854/month for rent (20.8% of income) or $718/month for a mortgage (17.5% of income). Either path leaves room in the budget, with ownership costing $136/month less than renting.
Southeast plains value proposition
Moving to Bent County works well if you value rural living and lower costs; $854 rent on a $49,194 salary means housing won't dominate your finances. Compare this affordability against available jobs in agriculture, energy, and small business.
Cost of Living Advisory: Bent County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Bent County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $854/month in gross rent, with 31.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Bent County is $854/month, while owner costs run $718/month. Owning saves approximately $136/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,160/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $30,771/year. With a median household income of $49,194, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Bent County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Bent County sits 7% more expensive than Otero County ($796/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Bent County
Rent Burden
20.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,148
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Bent County
Median home value is $137,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,101 vs. your max of $1,148.
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 Bent County, Colorado?
What is the median rent in Bent County?
Is Bent County affordable?
How does Bent County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Bent County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Bent County, Colorado? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Bent 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.