Cost of Living in Madison County, Idaho
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Madison County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Madison County ranks #1,223 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 39%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Madison County, Idaho
Madison rents outpace national affordability
Madison County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.9% exceeds the national baseline, meaning renters here spend nearly a fifth of their income on housing—significantly more than the typical American household. With a median household income of $58,259 compared to the national median of $74,755, Madison earners have 22% less income to cover similar or higher housing costs.
Among Idaho's least affordable counties
Madison County ranks as one of Idaho's least affordable places, with a 19.9% rent-to-income ratio well above the state average of 16.8%. Only a handful of Idaho counties face worse housing cost burdens relative to income.
Pricier than most neighboring counties
Madison County's $965 median monthly rent runs $46 higher than the state average and $55 more than nearby Power County's $729. However, median home values of $365,000 position Madison as one of the region's pricier real estate markets, though still below some neighboring areas.
Housing consumes nearly one-fifth of income
Renters here spend $965 monthly while homeowners spend $1,065, with median home values at $365,000. Against a median household income of $58,259, these costs mean housing claims roughly 20% of renter income and slightly higher for mortgage holders—a tight squeeze for household budgets.
Is Madison right for you?
If you're relocating, Madison County offers a growing community feel but demands strong income to maintain comfort. Compare your anticipated salary against the $58,259 median to gauge whether your housing budget will align with local costs.
Cost of Living Advisory: Madison County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Madison County is affordable. The median rent is $965/month against a median household income of $58,259, putting rent at 19.9% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Madison County pay $965/month on average, compared to $1,065/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 9%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,600/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $45,643/year. With a median household income of $58,259, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Madison County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Idaho, Madison County is more affordable than Minidoka County by roughly 6% ($965/mo vs $909/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Madison County
Rent Burden
19.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,359
per month
Owner Cost Burden
21.9%
of gross income
The median home in Madison County may be a stretch
Median home value is $365,000. Estimated monthly cost: $2,914 vs. your max of $1,359.
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
What is the cost of living in Madison County, Idaho?
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Is Madison County affordable?
How does Madison County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Madison County?
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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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