Cost of Living in Latah County, Idaho
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Latah County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Latah County, Idaho
Latah County rents match national affordability
Latah County's 16.7% rent-to-income ratio aligns almost exactly with Idaho's state average of 16.8%, placing renters near the national norm despite a median income of $65,179 that's 13% below the U.S. benchmark. The county delivers average affordability without average income pressure.
Near-average affordability with college income
Latah County's 16.7% rent-to-income ratio sits just below Idaho's 16.8% average, with median rents of $905 tracking close to the state median of $919. The presence of the University of Idaho creates income diversity and moderates housing cost pressure across the county.
Mid-range rents, lower incomes than peers
At $905, Latah's median rent ranks third-highest among these eight counties, but the $65,179 median income is below Jefferson ($82,952), Kootenai ($77,034), and Jerome ($69,338). This mismatch pushes Latah's rent-to-income ratio slightly above the state average despite moderate rents.
Ownership carries substantial monthly premium
Renters pay $905 monthly while homeowners spend $1,118 on the $342,500 median home value, a $213 monthly gap for the $65,179 median household income. The home value is the county's second-highest, reflecting university-adjacent demand that inflates ownership costs without boosting renter income equally.
Latah works best for income-stable renters
Latah County's 16.7% rent-to-income ratio is manageable for renters with $65,000+ incomes, but prospective homebuyers should plan carefully for the $1,118 monthly ownership cost. If you're considering relocation with a career at the University of Idaho or related institutions, Latah delivers university-town amenities at near-state-average costs.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Latah County
Rent Burden
16.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,521
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.6%
of gross income
The median home in Latah County may be a stretch
Median home value is $342,500. Estimated monthly cost: $2,734 vs. your max of $1,521.
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.