Cost of Living in Bonner County, Idaho
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Bonner County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Bonner County ranks #1,538 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 49%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Bonner County, Idaho
Bonner rents strain incomes nationally
Bonner County renters spend 19.5% of their income on rent—well above the national sweet spot of roughly 15-18%. While the county's median income of $65,168 lags the national median of $74,755, housing costs here bite deeper than they do for typical American households.
Idaho's affordability gap grows here
At 19.5%, Bonner's rent-to-income ratio exceeds Idaho's state average of 16.8%, ranking the county among the least affordable in the state. Median rent of $1,059 also runs $140 above the state average, putting pressure on local renters.
Pricier than northern Idaho peers
Bonner's $1,059 rent outpaces both Boundary County ($867) and Caribou County ($800), making it the costliest among its rural northern neighbors. The higher rents reflect Bonner's proximity to recreational amenities and Coeur d'Alene's growing appeal as a relocation destination.
Nearly 20 cents of every dollar
Bonner renters spend $1,059 monthly while homeowners face $1,015, yet both eat into a median income of just $65,168. That 19.5% rental burden leaves households squeezed after paying for other essentials.
Consider Bonner carefully if renting
If you're relocating to north Idaho, compare Bonner's tight rental market to Boundary ($867) or Caribou ($800)—you could save $2,000–$3,000 annually in neighboring counties. Owner costs are moderate at $1,015/month, making home purchase the better long-term bet here.
Cost of Living Advisory: Bonner County
Affordability Verdict
Bonner County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,059/month — about 19.5% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Bonner County pay $1,059/month on average, compared to $1,015/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 4%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $42,360/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $43,500/year. With a median household income of $65,168, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Bonner County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Idaho, Bonner County is less affordable than Elmore County by roughly 5% ($1,059/mo vs $1,111/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Bonner County
Rent Burden
19.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,521
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.7%
of gross income
The median home in Bonner County may be a stretch
Median home value is $433,400. Estimated monthly cost: $3,460 vs. your max of $1,521.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Bonner County, Idaho?
What is the median rent in Bonner County?
Is Bonner County affordable?
How does Bonner County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Bonner County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Bonner County, Idaho? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Bonner 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.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.