Cost of Living in Otero County, Colorado
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Otero County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Otero County, Colorado
Otero County: Colorado's most affordable haven
Otero County renters spend just 17.4% of income on housing—among the lowest ratios in the nation and well below affordability concerns. At $54,897, median household income is 27% below the U.S. average, but rock-bottom rents of $796/month make housing genuinely accessible here.
Colorado's bargain-basement rents
Otero County's $796 median rent is the lowest in our sample and 37% below Colorado's state median of $1,253, creating extraordinary affordability. The 17.4% rent-to-income ratio matches top performers statewide despite wages significantly below state averages.
Dramatically cheaper than mountain counties
Otero's $796 rent undercuts every neighboring county in our sample by wide margins—Mineral ($903), Montezuma ($974), and Montrose ($1,120) all charge 12-40% more. Its median home value of $160,700 is also the lowest, reflecting Otero's position as Southeast Colorado's most economical market.
Minimal housing burden, low wages
Renters pay just $796/month and owners spend $831, among the nation's lowest absolute costs for housing. At $54,897 median income, housing represents roughly 17-18% of monthly earnings—leaving tight but sustainable budgets for residents with limited local wage growth.
Maximum affordability, limited opportunity
Otero County is ideal for retirees, remote workers, or those prioritizing bare-bones cost of living, with rents 36% below state average. Consider this against Mineral County for slightly better wages, or Montezuma County if seeking better income potential without major rent increases.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Otero County
Rent Burden
17.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,281
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.2%
of gross income
The median home in Otero County may be a stretch
Median home value is $160,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,283 vs. your max of $1,281.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Otero County, Colorado?
What is the median rent in Otero County?
Is Otero County affordable?
How does Otero County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Otero County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Otero County, Colorado? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in Otero 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.