Cost of Living in Kiowa County, Colorado
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Kiowa County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Kiowa County ranks #1,741 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 45%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Kiowa County, Colorado
Kiowa: rural affordability, limited income
Kiowa County renters spend 18.5% of income on rent—a healthy affordability ratio—at just $869 monthly. However, median income of $56,389 runs significantly below the national average of $74,755, limiting overall economic security despite low housing costs.
Below-average income, good rent ratio
Kiowa's rent-to-income ratio of 18.5% ranks it below Colorado's 20.2% state average, placing housing in the affordable category. Yet the county's low median income ($56,389) suggests broader economic challenges beyond housing.
Kiowa leads on affordability metrics
Kiowa's $869 median rent and median home value of $148,600 are the lowest among all counties examined, rivaling even Huerfano County. Its rent-to-income ratio of 18.5% beats most peers, making Kiowa genuinely accessible for budget-conscious renters.
Lowest home prices, tight wages
Kiowa renters spend $869 monthly (18.5% of $56,389), the lowest absolute rent across all counties, while owners pay $677. These ultra-low housing costs are offset by the county's limited job market and below-average incomes.
Kiowa for remote and retired workers
Kiowa offers unbeatable affordability if you bring income from outside the county—remote work, retirement, or freelance revenue. If relying on local jobs, explore neighboring counties with stronger employment bases.
Cost of Living Advisory: Kiowa County
Affordability Verdict
Kiowa County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $869/month representing approximately 18.5% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 24.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Kiowa County is $869/month, while owner costs run $677/month. Owning saves approximately $192/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,760/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $29,014/year. With a median household income of $56,389, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Kiowa County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Colorado, Kiowa County is less affordable than Rio Blanco County by roughly 6% ($869/mo vs $924/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Kiowa County
Rent Burden
18.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,316
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Kiowa County
Median home value is $148,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,186 vs. your max of $1,316.
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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