Cost of Living in Mineral County, Colorado
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Mineral County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Mineral County ranks #87 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 3%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Mineral County, Colorado
Mineral County beats national affordability
Mineral County renters spend 20.7% of income on housing, slightly above the national median but a reasonable burden for rural Colorado. With a median household income of $52,455—about 30% below the U.S. average of $74,755—residents here earn less yet maintain comparable rent-to-income ratios, suggesting lower absolute costs offset lower wages.
Slightly tighter than Colorado average
At 20.7%, Mineral County's rent-to-income ratio sits just above Colorado's state average of 20.2%, ranking it in the middle of the state's affordability spectrum. The median rent of $903/month is substantially cheaper than the state median of $1,253, making it one of Colorado's more affordable rental markets.
Outpaced by surrounding counties
Mineral County's $903 monthly rent undercuts nearby Montezuma County ($974) and Montrose County ($1,120), though incomes here are also lower. Among its peers, Mineral County offers competitive pricing but lags neighbors like Moffat County in income-to-housing balance.
Balanced housing costs, modest income
Monthly renters pay $903 while homeowners spend $971, a tight spread reflecting a market without severe price stratification. With median household income at $52,455, housing consumes roughly one-fifth of the typical budget, leaving limited cushion for other expenses.
Affordable rents, lower paychecks
Mineral County appeals to remote workers or retirees seeking low rent ($903/month) in a rural setting, though the lower median income suggests limited local job opportunities. Compare this market against Moffat County or Montezuma County if you're weighing both affordability and wage growth.
Cost of Living Advisory: Mineral County
Affordability Verdict
Mineral County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $903/month representing approximately 20.7% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 31.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $903/month rent versus $971/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $68/month cheaper — a 7% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $41,614/year. With a median household income of $52,455, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Mineral County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Colorado, Mineral County is less affordable than Montezuma County by roughly 7% ($903/mo vs $974/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Mineral County
Rent Burden
20.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,224
per month
Owner Cost Burden
22.2%
of gross income
The median home in Mineral County may be a stretch
Median home value is $413,000. Estimated monthly cost: $3,297 vs. your max of $1,224.
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 Mineral County, Colorado?
What is the median rent in Mineral County?
Is Mineral County affordable?
How does Mineral County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Mineral County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Mineral County, Colorado? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Mineral 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.