Cost of Living in Grand County, Colorado
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Grand County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Grand County ranks #960 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 31%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Grand County, Colorado
Grand's rents strain renters
Grand County renters spend 20.6% of income on rent—above the national affordability threshold but still manageable. With a median income of $84,558, Grand residents earn 13% more than the national median, providing some cushion against higher mountain-town rents.
Slightly above Colorado average
Grand's rent-to-income ratio of 20.6% edges slightly above Colorado's 20.2% state average, ranking it near the middle of the state's counties. The county's higher rents relative to income put it in moderate affordability territory.
Grand rents lead the trio
Grand County has the highest median rent ($1,451) among its mountain peers Gilpin ($1,340) and Gunnison ($1,191). However, Grand's homeownership costs ($1,334/month) are the lowest of the three, favoring buyers over renters.
Renters hit harder than owners
Renters in Grand pay $1,451 monthly—20.6% of a $84,558 annual income—while owners spend $1,334 on mortgages. This makes homeownership notably more affordable than renting in Grand, a reversal of national trends.
Grand works best for buyers
If you're eyeing Grand County, prioritize homeownership to maximize affordability; rents here are pricier than in neighboring mountain counties. Check whether you can qualify for a mortgage, as it's substantially cheaper than renting in this market.
Cost of Living Advisory: Grand County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Grand County is affordable. The median rent is $1,451/month against a median household income of $84,558, putting rent at 20.6% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Grand County pay $1,451/month on average, compared to $1,334/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 8%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $58,040/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $57,171/year. With a median household income of $84,558, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Grand County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Grand County sits 4% more expensive than Ouray County ($1,398/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Grand County
Rent Burden
20.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,973
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.9%
of gross income
The median home in Grand County may be a stretch
Median home value is $507,200. Estimated monthly cost: $4,049 vs. your max of $1,973.
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 Grand County, Colorado?
What is the median rent in Grand County?
Is Grand County affordable?
How does Grand County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Grand County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Grand County, Colorado? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Grand 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.