Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Idaho
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jefferson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Jefferson County ranks #1,302 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 41%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Idaho
Jefferson County punches above income weight
With a rent-to-income ratio of 15.9%, Jefferson County renters fare better than the national norm and nearly match the national average household income of $74,755—a rare combination in rural Idaho. At $82,952, the median household income here is 11% above the national benchmark, creating strong purchasing power.
High earners, moderate rents statewide
Jefferson County's 15.9% rent-to-income ratio sits just below Idaho's 16.8% state average, despite rents at $1,098 that exceed the state median by 19%. The key advantage is income: at $82,952, households earn significantly more than most Idaho counties, improving overall affordability.
More expensive rents, better paychecks
Jefferson County's $1,098 rent is the second-highest among these eight counties, but incomes here are also the strongest at $82,952. Compared to lower-income counties like Lemhi ($52,057) and Lewis ($49,643), Jefferson renters earn enough to weather higher housing costs without hardship.
Ownership carries premium costs here
Renters pay $1,098 monthly while homeowners face $1,218 in monthly costs on the $335,000 median home value—the mortgage burden actually exceeds rent. The $82,952 median income supports both, but prospective owners should budget carefully for the ownership premium in this county.
Jefferson: where higher pay meets higher rents
If career advancement is your priority, Jefferson County's strong incomes ($82,952) offset its steeper housing costs compared to neighbors. Renters considering the move should weigh the $1,098 rent against local wage opportunities—the math works better here than in lower-income counties with comparable rents.
Cost of Living Advisory: Jefferson County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Jefferson County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,098/month in gross rent, with 23.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Jefferson County pay $1,098/month on average, compared to $1,218/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 10%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $43,920/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $52,200/year. With a median household income of $82,952, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in Jefferson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Idaho, Jefferson County is more affordable than Twin Falls County by roughly 9% ($1,098/mo vs $1,011/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jefferson County
Rent Burden
15.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,936
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.6%
of gross income
The median home in Jefferson County may be a stretch
Median home value is $335,000. Estimated monthly cost: $2,674 vs. your max of $1,936.
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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