Cost of Living in Carbon County, Montana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Carbon County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Carbon County, Montana
Carbon strikes balance in housing costs
Carbon County's 14.9% rent-to-income ratio sits nearly at the national norm, with renters paying $882/month on median household incomes of $71,017. This near-equilibrium reflects both higher local wages and moderately priced housing, compared to several Montana peers.
Carbon performs slightly above state average
At 14.9%, Carbon's rent-to-income ratio beats Montana's state average of 15.9%, positioning it as a moderate-affordability county. The county's higher median income of $71,017 provides more breathing room than many rural Montana neighbors.
Carbon rents moderate, ownership steep
Carbon's $882 monthly rent sits between Beaverhead ($800) and Cascade ($902), offering middle-ground pricing for renters. However, homebuyers face the region's steepest costs: median home values of $379,300 and monthly owner costs of $1,003 exceed all comparable counties except Broadwater.
Renters fare better than homeowners here
Carbon renters earning $71,017 spend roughly $882/month on housing—14.9% of gross income, a manageable share. Homeowners, however, dedicate $1,003/month to ownership costs—roughly 16.9% of income—reflecting the county's elevated property values and mortgage pressures.
Carbon County: strong incomes, premium homes
Relocating to Carbon? The county rewards renters with solid affordability (14.9%) and higher-than-average incomes, but challenges homebuyers with premium property costs. Compare its 14.9% rent burden against pricier Broadwater (18.4%) or more affordable Blaine (12.7%) to decide if Carbon fits your plans.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Carbon County
Rent Burden
14.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,657
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.9%
of gross income
The median home in Carbon County may be a stretch
Median home value is $379,300. Estimated monthly cost: $3,028 vs. your max of $1,657.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Carbon County, Montana?
What is the median rent in Carbon County?
Is Carbon County affordable?
How does Carbon County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Carbon County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Carbon County, Montana? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in Carbon 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.