Cost of Living in Douglas County, Colorado
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Douglas County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Douglas County ranks #1,806 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 43%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Douglas County, Colorado
Douglas County's high earners, low burden
Douglas County residents spend just 17.3% of income on rent—significantly better than national averages and among the most affordable in Colorado. With a median household income of $145,737 (nearly double the national average of $74,755), the county offers exceptional affordability for its residents.
Most affordable county in Colorado
Douglas County's 17.3% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest in the state, well below Colorado's 20.2% average. This affluent suburb's combination of high incomes and relatively moderate rent burdens makes it the state's most affordable market.
Highest rents, highest incomes balance out
Douglas County's median rent of $2,095 is the highest among peer counties, yet its median household income of $145,737 dwarfs every neighbor. Elbert County ($129,477) comes closest, but Douglas residents have more cushion for housing costs.
Upper-income households dominate affordably
Renters pay $2,095 monthly while homeowners face $2,524 on a median home value of $674,000, but these costs represent just 17.3% and 20.8% of the $145,737 median income respectively. Douglas County households have the most financial flexibility of any county studied.
Perfect for high-earning relocators
If you're moving to Colorado with a six-figure income, Douglas County offers the state's most comfortable housing economics and growing suburban communities. Families and professionals earning $130,000+ will find exceptional affordability here.
Cost of Living Advisory: Douglas County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Douglas County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $2,095/month in gross rent, with 30.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Douglas County pay $2,095/month on average, compared to $2,524/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 17%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $83,800/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $108,171/year. With a median household income of $145,737, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Douglas County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Eagle County where rent averages $2,032/month, Douglas County is approximately 3% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Douglas County
Rent Burden
17.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$3,401
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.8%
of gross income
The median home in Douglas County may be a stretch
Median home value is $674,000. Estimated monthly cost: $5,381 vs. your max of $3,401.
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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