Cost of Living in Elmore County, Idaho
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Elmore County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Elmore County, Idaho
Elmore's housing crunch strains household budgets
At 22.6%, Elmore County's rent-to-income ratio far exceeds the national average and nearly matches the highest-cost markets in America. The $1,111 median rent is Idaho's highest relative to household income of $58,976, signaling a genuine affordability crisis.
Elmore leads Idaho in housing unaffordability
Elmore County's 22.6% rent-to-income ratio stands out painfully above Idaho's 16.8% state average, making it the state's least affordable county for renters. At $1,111/month, its median rent exceeds the state average by $192, yet household incomes remain below regional peers.
Dramatically pricier than surrounding counties
Elmore County's $1,111 rent towers over neighbors Custer ($744), Clearwater ($847), and Fremont ($803), representing a 50% premium over Custer. This surge in rental costs without proportional income gains creates the region's steepest affordability penalty.
Housing consumes more than one-fifth of income
Renters commit 22.6% of income—nearly a quarter—to $1,111/month housing, a burden that dwarfs peers across Idaho and the nation. Homeowners face similar pressure, paying $906/month on median homes valued at $278,300.
Elmore demands careful budget planning
Elmore County's high housing costs make it unsuitable for tight-budget renters, though higher earners may find the amenities worth it. Before relocating, compare rents in Fremont and Custer, which offer dramatically lower costs in similar Idaho settings.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Elmore County
Rent Burden
22.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,376
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.4%
of gross income
The median home in Elmore County may be a stretch
Median home value is $278,300. Estimated monthly cost: $2,222 vs. your max of $1,376.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.