Cost of Living in Shoshone County, Idaho
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Shoshone County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Shoshone County ranks #1,828 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 42%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Shoshone County, Idaho
Shoshone faces severe affordability stress
Shoshone County's 21.1% rent-to-income ratio ranks among America's least affordable, with renters spending over one-fifth of income on housing. With a median household income of just $49,975—the region's lowest—renters at $880 monthly face genuine affordability crisis conditions.
Idaho's least affordable county
Shoshone County's 21.1% rent-to-income ratio is the worst in Idaho, far exceeding the state average of 16.8% and the national comfort threshold. This acute affordability gap reflects both lower local income and rents that outpace earning capacity.
Highest rent burden in the region
Shoshone's $880 rent sits near regional medians, but its $49,975 median income—$10,000 below any neighbor—creates the region's worst affordability crisis. Housing costs consume nearly one-fifth of household income here, double the comfortable threshold.
Housing dominates household budgets
Renters spend $880 monthly while homeowners pay $760 on median-valued homes of $222,700. Against the $49,975 median income, rents consume 21.1% of household resources while homeownership costs less proportionally—but require capital most residents lack.
Only move if income is secure
Shoshone County demands careful financial planning before relocation—household incomes here lag significantly while housing costs remain substantial. Only consider moving if your expected salary substantially exceeds the $49,975 median, ensuring housing won't consume excessive portions of your paycheck.
Cost of Living Advisory: Shoshone County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Shoshone County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $880/month in gross rent, with 26.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $880/month rent versus $760/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $120/month cheaper — a 14% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $35,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $32,571/year. With a median household income of $49,975, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Shoshone County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Idaho, Shoshone County is less affordable than Nez Perce County by roughly 6% ($880/mo vs $936/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Shoshone County
Rent Burden
21.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,166
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.2%
of gross income
The median home in Shoshone County may be a stretch
Median home value is $222,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,778 vs. your max of $1,166.
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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