Cost of Living in Washington County, Florida
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Washington County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Washington County ranks #1,244 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 40%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Washington County, Florida
Washington offers rare rental bargains
Washington County residents spend just 20.1% of income on rent—below both the national and state averages—despite earning only $52,723 annually, roughly 29% below the national median. This rural county delivers genuine affordability for lower-income households seeking stable housing costs.
Florida's most affordable rents for renters
Washington County's median rent of $884 ranks among the lowest in Florida, running $349 (28%) below the state average of $1,233. With a rent-to-income ratio of 20.1%, this county outperforms the state's 22.5% average despite significantly lower household incomes.
Cheapest housing in the trio by far
Washington's $884 rent undercuts Wakulla by $271 and Walton by $790—offering the deepest affordability across all three counties. Home values follow the same pattern: Washington's $156,000 median is 28% less than Wakulla and 58% less than Walton.
Housing takes smallest slice of income
Washington residents allocate just 20.1% to rent and 12.7% to mortgage payments—the lowest housing burden among all three counties. This efficiency leaves households with maximum flexibility for healthcare, education, and savings despite lower absolute income levels.
Washington maximizes housing dollars
If affordability is your primary driver, Washington County delivers unmatched value: $884 rent on a $52,700 income beats most of Florida. Trade some convenience and amenities for genuine financial breathing room and stability.
Cost of Living Advisory: Washington County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Washington County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $884/month in gross rent, with 32.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Washington County is $884/month, while owner costs run $559/month. Owning saves approximately $325/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $35,360/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $23,957/year. With a median household income of $52,723, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 32.0% of renter households in Washington County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Florida, Washington County is more affordable than Levy County by roughly 7% ($884/mo vs $826/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Washington County
Rent Burden
20.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,230
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.7%
of gross income
The median home in Washington County may be a stretch
Median home value is $156,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,245 vs. your max of $1,230.
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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