Cost of Living in Gem County, Idaho
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Gem County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Gem County ranks #1,100 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 35%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Gem County, Idaho
Gem County balances high homes and solid income
At 16.1%, Gem County's rent-to-income ratio sits just below the national average, but the story is told by its highest median home value in the region at $367,300. Strong household income of $66,245 supports both these elevated housing costs and reasonable rental affordability.
Gem anchors Idaho's middle affordability tier
Gem County's 16.1% rent-to-income ratio falls within Idaho's 16.8% state average, positioning it as a moderate-affordability county statewide. The $887 median rent exceeds the state average by $10, yet household incomes above state norms help balance the equation.
Pricier homes, comparable rents to the region
Gem County's $887 rent resembles neighbors Clearwater ($847) and Fremont ($803), but its $367,300 median home value stands dramatically higher than all peers, suggesting gentrification or premium acreage. This home-price premium separates Gem as a buyer's market with residential appeal.
Homeownership carries premium in Gem County
Renters spend 16.1% of income on $887/month housing, managing moderate affordability, while homeowners commit $924/month to properties worth $367,300. The elevated home values suggest desirable neighborhoods or rural properties that command Idaho's highest valuations.
Gem County suits established homebuyers
If you have solid income and seek premium Idaho real estate and rural charm, Gem County's elevated home prices reward buyers seeking land and lifestyle. Renters should compare the $887 rent against more affordable Fremont and Franklin before committing to this pricier market.
Cost of Living Advisory: Gem County
Affordability Verdict
Gem County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $887/month representing approximately 16.1% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 24.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Gem County is $887/month, while owner costs run $924/month. Renting saves approximately $37/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $35,480/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $39,600/year. With a median household income of $66,245, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Gem County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Idaho, Gem County is more affordable than Franklin County by roughly 7% ($887/mo vs $831/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Gem County
Rent Burden
16.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,546
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.7%
of gross income
The median home in Gem County may be a stretch
Median home value is $367,300. Estimated monthly cost: $2,932 vs. your max of $1,546.
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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