Cost of Living in Washington County, Idaho
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Washington County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Washington County ranks #880 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 28%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Washington County, Idaho
Washington County's housing affordability crisis
Washington County's rent-to-income ratio of 20.6% ranks among the nation's worst, nearly 6 percentage points above the U.S. norm. With a median household income of just $53,608—$21,000 below the national average—residents face severe affordability strain despite modest absolute rent costs.
Idaho's least affordable county
Washington County carries Idaho's highest rent-to-income ratio at 20.6%, nearly 4 percentage points worse than the state average of 16.8%. This distinction makes it the state's most housing-challenged market by this metric.
Lowest rents, lowest incomes
Washington County's $919 median rent matches Idaho's state average exactly, yet its median household income of $53,608 trails Teton County by $37,132. The county represents rural Idaho's economic squeeze: minimal housing costs can't overcome minimal earning power.
Limited choices, tight margins
Renters dedicate 20.6% of income to $919 monthly housing, while homeowners commit 17% to $761 monthly costs on homes averaging $250,000. Even ownership—typically the cheaper long-term path—consumes a concerning share of already-slim household budgets.
Washington County: Rethink relocation here
Before moving to Washington County, honestly assess your income prospects; the county's affordability crisis stems from wage stagnation, not high rents. Remote workers earning outside-county salaries will find exceptional value, but local job seekers should prioritize regions with stronger income growth.
Cost of Living Advisory: Washington County
Affordability Verdict
Washington County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $919/month representing approximately 20.6% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 29.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Washington County pay $919/month on average, compared to $761/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 17%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,760/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $32,614/year. With a median household income of $53,608, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Washington County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Washington County sits 6% more expensive than Boundary County ($867/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Washington County
Rent Burden
20.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,251
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.0%
of gross income
The median home in Washington County may be a stretch
Median home value is $250,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,998 vs. your max of $1,251.
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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