Cost of Living in Summit County, Colorado
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Summit County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Summit County, Colorado
Summit County's premium mountain prices
Summit County's 20.9% rent-to-income ratio slightly exceeds Colorado's 20.2% state average despite earning a top-tier $106,255 median household income. Renters pay $1,851 monthly—48% above the national median—a premium justified by world-class skiing and mountain prestige.
Among Colorado's pricier counties
Summit County's 20.9% rent-to-income ratio ranks above Colorado's 20.2% average, placing it among the state's more expensive housing markets despite stellar household incomes. The $1,851 median rent runs $598 above the state average, reflecting Summit's status as a resort-driven economy.
Summit commands the mountain premium
Summit's $1,851 rent towers over San Juan ($1,076) and San Miguel ($1,173), nearly double what nearby mountain counties charge for housing. The $850,700 median home value is the highest in this eight-county set, capturing the destination desirability and limited land supply that define Colorado's premier ski resort county.
High earners, high housing costs
Summit renters pay $1,851 monthly while homeowners face $1,874—virtually identical costs as the county attracts high-income households willing to pay for mountain access. At $106,255 median income, both renting and buying consume roughly 21% of household earnings, requiring six-figure salaries to maintain comfortable budgets.
For serious mountain pursuits only
Summit County demands the highest income threshold in this group: plan to earn at least $106,255 annually to comfortably afford $1,851 rent or an $850,700 home purchase. If ski culture and high-altitude living justify the premium for you, Summit delivers unmatched mountain access—but only for well-compensated relocators.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Summit County
Rent Burden
20.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,479
per month
Owner Cost Burden
21.2%
of gross income
The median home in Summit County may be a stretch
Median home value is $850,700. Estimated monthly cost: $6,791 vs. your max of $2,479.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Summit County, Colorado?
What is the median rent in Summit County?
Is Summit County affordable?
How does Summit County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Summit County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Summit County, Colorado? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in Summit 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.