Cost of Living in Bear Lake County, Idaho
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Bear Lake County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Bear Lake County, Idaho
Bear Lake shines as affordability leader
Bear Lake County's rent-to-income ratio of just 12.3% ranks among America's most affordable markets, with renters dedicating a modest $687 monthly to housing. Though median household income of $67,304 falls below the national median of $74,755, the county's exceptionally low rents create outsized affordability.
Idaho's most affordable rental market
Bear Lake County's 12.3% rent-to-income ratio crushes Idaho's state average of 16.8%, offering renters remarkable savings compared to peers statewide. At $687 monthly, median rent runs $232 below the state median of $919—the lowest in the state by this data.
Bear Lake undercuts all neighboring counties
Bear Lake County's median rent of $687 significantly undercuts Bannock County ($879), Bingham County ($845), and Benewah County ($853). This rural county's median home value of $234,200 also ranks among the state's lowest, making homeownership accessible.
Housing consumes just 12% of household income
Bear Lake County residents spend $687 monthly on rent and $787 on ownership costs, both remarkably low relative to the $67,304 median household income. This leaves ample room for savings, healthcare, and other essentials—a rare luxury in today's housing market.
Bear Lake: affordability's ultimate destination
If housing affordability is your paramount concern, Bear Lake County offers unmatched value in Idaho and competitive pricing nationally. Weigh the tradeoff: ultra-low costs come with rural isolation and limited job diversity, but the financial relief is substantial.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Bear Lake County
Rent Burden
12.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,570
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.0%
of gross income
The median home in Bear Lake County may be a stretch
Median home value is $234,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,870 vs. your max of $1,570.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Bear Lake County, Idaho?
What is the median rent in Bear Lake County?
Is Bear Lake County affordable?
How does Bear Lake County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Bear Lake County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Bear Lake County, Idaho? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in Bear Lake 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.