Cost of Living in Blaine County, Idaho
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Blaine County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Blaine County ranks #664 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 21%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Blaine County, Idaho
Blaine rents are pricey, but income is strong
Blaine County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.3% sits above the national standard, with renters spending $1,217 monthly on a median household income of $84,470. Though housing costs are high, this county's above-average income—$9,715 above the national median—provides meaningful cushion.
Blaine ranks second among Idaho's priciest
Blaine County's 17.3% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Idaho's state average of 16.8%, second only to Ada County in rental expense burden. Median rent of $1,217 runs $298 above the statewide median, reflecting this county's mountain resort character.
Blaine costs match Ada, with different character
Blaine County's median rent of $1,217 trails only Ada County's $1,465 in Idaho, though homebuyers here see dramatically different values: Blaine's median home price of $663,800 reflects its exclusive mountain-resort positioning. Unlike Ada's urban sprawl, Blaine's high costs come with scenic amenities.
High earners sustain high housing costs
Blaine County renters spend $1,217 monthly while homeowners pay $1,230, both elevated on a median income of $84,470. At 17.3% of income dedicated to rent, residents retain solid earnings, though absolute costs rank among Idaho's highest.
Blaine suits affluent movers seeking mountain living
Relocating to Blaine County means high housing costs offset by premium income and mountain-resort lifestyle; it's for those who can afford the premium. Compare thoughtfully with Ada County—Blaine offers rural charm at comparable prices, while Ada provides urban amenities and job diversity.
Cost of Living Advisory: Blaine County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Blaine County is affordable. The median rent is $1,217/month against a median household income of $84,470, putting rent at 17.3% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,217/month rent versus $1,230/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $13/month cheaper — a 1% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $48,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $52,714/year. With a median household income of $84,470, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Blaine County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Elmore County where rent averages $1,111/month, Blaine County is approximately 10% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Blaine County
Rent Burden
17.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,971
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.5%
of gross income
The median home in Blaine County may be a stretch
Median home value is $663,800. Estimated monthly cost: $5,299 vs. your max of $1,971.
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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