Cost of Living in Fallon County, Montana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Fallon County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Fallon County ranks #33 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 1%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Fallon County, Montana
Fallon: Affordable Rents, Strong Local Wages
Fallon County delivers excellent affordability, with renters spending just 12.8% of income on housing while earning a healthy median of $72,284. Monthly rent of $772 remains modest, and local wages are nearly at national median levels, creating favorable conditions for renters and buyers. This county demonstrates how balanced economic conditions produce genuine housing affordability.
Fallon Beats Montana on Affordability Metrics
At 12.8%, Fallon County's rent-to-income ratio significantly outperforms Montana's 15.9% state average, placing it among the state's most livable counties. Median household income of $72,284 ranks in the upper tier for Montana rural counties, supporting the county's strong affordability position. Fallon represents economic stability and balanced housing markets in eastern Montana.
Fallon: The Value Leader of Eastern Montana
Fallon's $772 monthly rent is the cheapest among its eastern neighbors, undercutting Custer ($918) by $146 and matching Daniels County as an affordability champion. Home values of $237,000 are notably higher than neighboring Custer and Dawson, yet affordability remains strong due to Fallon's above-average income levels. The county offers excellent value-to-income ratios across both rental and ownership markets.
Fallon's Sustainable Housing-Income Balance
With median income of $72,284 annually ($6,024 monthly), Fallon renters spending $772 on rent consume only 12.8%—well below the 15% affordability benchmark. Homeowners pay $878 monthly, just 14.6% of median income, making both rental and ownership highly accessible relative to local earnings. Fallon demonstrates what happens when wages and housing costs align favorably.
Fallon: Eastern Montana's Sweet Spot
Fallon County combines exceptional affordability (12.8% rent-to-income ratio) with above-average local wages, making it ideal for families prioritizing both stability and low housing costs. Home values averaging $237,000 are higher than neighboring counties, but remain manageable given strong median income, suggesting solid long-term investment potential. If you're relocating to eastern Montana, Fallon's economic fundamentals are among the strongest in the region.
Cost of Living Advisory: Fallon County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Fallon County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $772/month in gross rent, with 20.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $772/month rent versus $878/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $106/month cheaper — a 12% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,880/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $37,629/year. With a median household income of $72,284, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 20.0% of renter households in Fallon County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Fallon County sits 6% less expensive than Dawson County ($823/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Fallon County
Rent Burden
12.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,687
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.6%
of gross income
The median home in Fallon County may be a stretch
Median home value is $237,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,892 vs. your max of $1,687.
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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