Cost of Living in Hinsdale County, Colorado
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Hinsdale County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Hinsdale County ranks #38 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 1%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Hinsdale County, Colorado
Hinsdale's low income, affordability trade-off
Hinsdale County residents earn a median of $64,327—14% below the national median of $74,755—but their rent-to-income ratio of 20.5% stays near affordable levels. Lower incomes offset by lower absolute rents keep housing accessible, though overall earning power is constrained.
Middle-ground affordability in state
Hinsdale's rent-to-income ratio of 20.5% sits essentially at Colorado's state average of 20.2%, placing it squarely in the state's affordability middle. The county's below-average income, however, limits overall economic mobility.
Hinsdale's lower costs, lower wages
Hinsdale's median rent ($1,099) and median home value ($438,800) are the lowest among nearby mountain counties like Gunnison and Grand. Yet Hinsdale also has the lowest median income ($64,327) of the region, indicating a less robust local economy.
Affordable housing, tight budgets
Renters in Hinsdale spend $1,099 monthly (20.5% of income), while owners pay $792—the county's most affordable ownership option regionally. However, the median income of $64,327 means residents have less disposable income after housing costs than wealthier neighbors.
Hinsdale for budget-conscious movers
Hinsdale offers Colorado's lowest housing costs, but the trade-off is a smaller local job market and lower wages. Consider it if you have remote income or are retiring on a fixed income; otherwise, explore neighboring counties with stronger employment options.
Cost of Living Advisory: Hinsdale County
Affordability Verdict
Hinsdale County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,099/month — about 20.5% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Hinsdale County pay $1,099/month on average, compared to $792/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 28%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $43,960/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $33,943/year. With a median household income of $64,327, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in Hinsdale County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Mesa County where rent averages $1,154/month, Hinsdale County is approximately 5% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Hinsdale County
Rent Burden
20.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,501
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.8%
of gross income
The median home in Hinsdale County may be a stretch
Median home value is $438,800. Estimated monthly cost: $3,503 vs. your max of $1,501.
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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