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
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.
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
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.