Cost of Living in Idaho County, Idaho
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Idaho County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Idaho County ranks #593 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 19%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Idaho County, Idaho
Idaho County rents are affordable nationally
At 15.7%, Idaho County's rent-to-income ratio beats the national median and sits well below the threshold where housing becomes a financial burden. Renters here spend less of their paycheck on housing than the typical American household, even though median income is 18% lower than the national average of $74,755.
Best rents in Idaho for the money
Idaho County ranks among the most affordable in the state, with a rent-to-income ratio of 15.7% compared to Idaho's state average of 16.8%. The median rent of $797 is the lowest among this region's counties, making it an outlier for housing cost relief.
Rents are lowest here among peer counties
Idaho County's median rent of $797 significantly undercuts neighboring Jerome ($862) and Latah ($905) counties, and falls well below the state median of $919. For renters prioritizing affordability, Idaho County offers the clearest value in north-central Idaho.
Renters and owners split fairly
Renters pay $797 monthly while owners carry $568 in monthly costs, both as portions of the $60,975 median household income. The owner cost is notably lower than rent, reflecting the county's median home value of $284,600 and suggesting a buyer's advantage for those with down payment savings.
Consider Idaho County for lower rent
If you're weighing relocation within Idaho, Idaho County delivers the region's lowest rents without sacrificing community or services. Compare this county's 15.7% rent-to-income ratio to higher-burden areas like Kootenai (20.7%) and Latah (16.7%) to see your real savings potential.
Cost of Living Advisory: Idaho County
Affordability Verdict
Idaho County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $797/month representing approximately 15.7% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 27.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Idaho County pay $797/month on average, compared to $568/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 29%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,880/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $24,343/year. With a median household income of $60,975, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Idaho County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Custer County where rent averages $744/month, Idaho County is approximately 7% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Idaho County
Rent Burden
15.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,423
per month
Owner Cost Burden
11.2%
of gross income
The median home in Idaho County may be a stretch
Median home value is $284,600. Estimated monthly cost: $2,272 vs. your max of $1,423.
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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