Cost of Living in Clearwater County, Idaho
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Clearwater County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Clearwater County ranks #687 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 22%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Clearwater County, Idaho
Clearwater renters fare better than most
Clearwater County's 17.5% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably near the national trend, with residents spending less than one-fifth of earnings on rent. The median household income of $57,961 trails the nation by $16,794, but the county's $847 monthly rent keeps the overall cost-to-income relationship competitive.
Edges above Idaho's affordability benchmark
At 17.5%, Clearwater County ranks slightly above Idaho's 16.8% state average, positioning it in the middle of state affordability. The county's $847 median rent runs well below the state's $919 average, offset by moderately lower household incomes.
Split the difference on rents with neighbors
Clearwater County's $847 rent sits between Custer County's bargain $744 and Elmore County's pricier $1,111. Household incomes here ($57,961) place it squarely between those same neighbors, making Clearwater a true middle ground in the region.
Balanced housing costs at middling incomes
Renters spend 17.5% of income on $847/month housing, while homeowners commit $672/month to median homes worth $240,800. This dual affordability—reasonable across both rental and ownership—reflects stable, if modest, economic conditions.
Clearwater works for budget-conscious renters
With rents under $850 and a balanced cost-of-living profile, Clearwater County suits remote workers and retirees prioritizing affordability. Scout the neighboring Custer and Elmore counties for comparison before committing to this rural Idaho gem.
Cost of Living Advisory: Clearwater County
Affordability Verdict
Clearwater County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $847/month — about 17.5% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Clearwater County pay $847/month on average, compared to $672/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 21%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $33,880/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $28,800/year. With a median household income of $57,961, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Clearwater County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Clearwater County sits 6% less expensive than Latah County ($905/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Clearwater County
Rent Burden
17.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,352
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.9%
of gross income
The median home in Clearwater County may be a stretch
Median home value is $240,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,922 vs. your max of $1,352.
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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