Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Colorado
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jefferson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Jefferson County ranks #2,550 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 19%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Colorado
Jefferson's wealth cushions housing costs
Jefferson County residents enjoy the state's highest median income at $107,800—44% above the national median—allowing them to absorb a rent-to-income ratio of 19.9%. Strong earnings put Jefferson among the nation's most economically resilient housing markets.
Colorado's most affluent county
Jefferson's rent-to-income ratio of 19.9% sits just below Colorado's 20.2% state average, and its $107,800 median income far outpaces every other county examined. This combination of high income and moderate housing burden creates genuine affordability for residents.
Jefferson's income, not cheap rents
Jefferson's median rent ($1,792) is the state's highest, but residents earn enough ($107,800) to absorb it comfortably. Median home values ($604,400) are also highest, reflecting a wealthy county where affordability stems from income, not low costs.
High earners, high costs, solid balance
Renters in Jefferson spend $1,792 monthly (19.9% of $107,800 annual income), while owners pay $1,937 (21.6%)—both within healthy ranges. Strong household incomes ensure residents aren't squeezed by housing, even at premium price points.
Jefferson rewards high earners
Jefferson County offers Colorado's strongest job market and highest incomes, making it ideal if you can command competitive wages. If your income aligns with the county's $107,800 median, you'll find housing genuinely affordable despite higher absolute costs.
Cost of Living Advisory: Jefferson County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Jefferson County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,792/month in gross rent, with 31.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Jefferson County is $1,792/month, while owner costs run $1,937/month. Renting saves approximately $145/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $71,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $83,014/year. With a median household income of $107,800, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Jefferson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Jefferson County sits 3% less expensive than Routt County ($1,845/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jefferson County
Rent Burden
19.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,515
per month
Owner Cost Burden
21.6%
of gross income
The median home in Jefferson County may be a stretch
Median home value is $604,400. Estimated monthly cost: $4,825 vs. your max of $2,515.
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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