Cost of Living in Owyhee County, Idaho
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Owyhee County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Owyhee County ranks #1,670 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 47%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Owyhee County, Idaho
Owyhee delivers rare rural affordability
Owyhee County's 15.5% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the nation's most affordable, with remarkably low rents of just $771 monthly. Though median household income lags the national average at $59,773, the combination of minimal rent and modest living costs creates genuine affordability.
Idaho's most affordable county
Owyhee County boasts the state's lowest rent-to-income ratio at 15.5%, with median rents of $771—$148 below the state average of $919. This rural county punches above its weight in affordability, making it Idaho's best bargain for renters.
Lowest rents in the region
Owyhee's $771 monthly rent is the cheapest in our eight-county comparison, undercutting even Power County's $729 by accounting for affordability. Median home values of $281,600 offer reasonable buying options relative to the $59,773 median income.
Minimal housing burden, maximum value
Renters spend just $771 monthly while homeowners pay $908, with median home values at $281,600. At a 15.5% rent-to-income ratio, Owyhee residents enjoy the lowest housing cost burden in our region—a genuine advantage for tight budgets.
Rural charm meets real affordability
If housing costs are your priority, Owyhee County delivers the region's best value with rents far below state average and manageable homebuying options. Relocating here means your paycheck stretches further, freeing resources for other priorities.
Cost of Living Advisory: Owyhee County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Owyhee County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $771/month in gross rent, with 23.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $771/month rent versus $908/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $137/month cheaper — a 15% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,840/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $38,914/year. With a median household income of $59,773, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in Owyhee County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Owyhee County sits 6% less expensive than Adams County ($823/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Owyhee County
Rent Burden
15.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,395
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.2%
of gross income
The median home in Owyhee County may be a stretch
Median home value is $281,600. Estimated monthly cost: $2,248 vs. your max of $1,395.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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 Owyhee County, Idaho?
What is the median rent in Owyhee County?
Is Owyhee County affordable?
How does Owyhee County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Owyhee County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Owyhee County, Idaho? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Owyhee County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.