Cost of Living in Beaverhead County, Montana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Beaverhead County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Beaverhead County, Montana
Beaverhead renters pay slightly more than nation
At 16.5%, Beaverhead's rent-to-income ratio sits just above the national norm, meaning renters here dedicate a bit more of their paychecks to housing than the typical American household. The county's median rent of $800 is lower than many urban centers, but local incomes of $58,072 lag the national median of $74,755 by about 22%, creating the squeeze.
Affordability challenge in rural Montana
Beaverhead's 16.5% rent-to-income ratio ranks as a mid-tier affordability challenge among Montana counties, slightly above the state average of 15.9%. The county mirrors statewide pressures: lower wages paired with housing costs that haven't declined proportionally.
Beaverhead rents competitive with rural peers
At $800/month, Beaverhead's median rent undercuts Carbon County ($882) and Cascade County ($902), placing it closer to Big Horn and Blaine counties. However, Beaverhead homeowners face steeper mortgage costs ($829/month) than Big Horn buyers ($537/month), reflecting higher median home values of $282,000 versus $148,200.
Housing eats nearly one-sixth of income
A renter earning Beaverhead's median household income of $58,072 spends roughly $800/month on housing—about 16.5% of gross income. Homeowners with a median monthly cost of $829 face a similar burden, leaving limited room in household budgets for other expenses.
Consider Beaverhead for balanced rural living
If you're weighing Montana relocation, Beaverhead offers competitive rental prices and a genuine sense of rural community. Compare its 16.5% rent-to-income ratio against pricier neighbors like Broadwater (18.4%) and Cascade (16.4%) to find your best fit.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Beaverhead County
Rent Burden
16.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,355
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.1%
of gross income
The median home in Beaverhead County may be a stretch
Median home value is $282,000. Estimated monthly cost: $2,251 vs. your max of $1,355.
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.