Cost of Living in Franklin County, Idaho
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Franklin County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Franklin County ranks #624 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 20%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Franklin County, Idaho
Franklin's rents click with strong incomes
Franklin County's 15.1% rent-to-income ratio runs well below both national and state averages, reflecting strong household incomes of $65,991 paired with moderate $831 rents. This combination positions Franklin as one of Idaho's affordability sweet spots.
Franklin outpaces Idaho's affordability baseline
At 15.1%, Franklin County beats Idaho's 16.8% state average rent-to-income ratio while keeping rents at $831—just shy of the state average of $919. Stronger-than-average household incomes are the key to Franklin's favorable affordability ranking.
Solid incomes offset slightly higher rents
Franklin County's $831 rent sits between Custer's bargain $744 and Clearwater's $847, but its notably higher household income of $65,991 gives residents more breathing room. This income advantage makes Franklin's slightly pricier rents feel more manageable.
Strong earners make housing stretch further
Renters spend just 15.1% of income on $831/month housing, leaving substantial room for other expenses, while homeowners pay $846/month on median properties worth $304,000. Franklin County's income strength across renters and buyers creates genuine financial flexibility.
Franklin suits mid-range income relocators
If you earn above $65,000 and seek reasonable housing costs with Idaho's rural character, Franklin County delivers solid affordability and financial breathing room. Compare it against neighboring Fremont and Custer to find your best fit in this accessible region.
Cost of Living Advisory: Franklin County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Franklin County is affordable. The median rent is $831/month against a median household income of $65,991, putting rent at 15.1% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Franklin County pay $831/month on average, compared to $846/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 2%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $33,240/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $36,257/year. With a median household income of $65,991, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 22.0% of renter households in Franklin County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Franklin County sits 6% less expensive than Gem County ($887/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Franklin County
Rent Burden
15.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,540
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.4%
of gross income
The median home in Franklin County may be a stretch
Median home value is $304,000. Estimated monthly cost: $2,427 vs. your max of $1,540.
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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