Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Montana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jefferson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Montana
Affluence unlocks housing affordability
Jefferson County's rent-to-income ratio of 13.9% beats both the national average and Montana's state average, the only county in this group below the national threshold. Median household income of $76,576 slightly exceeds the national average of $74,755, enabling residents to absorb higher absolute costs.
Montana's most affordable for the affluent
Jefferson County ranks first among these counties with a 13.9% rent-to-income ratio, well below Montana's 15.9% average. Above-state-average income makes housing accessible despite higher absolute prices.
Premium homes, premium incomes
Jefferson's $886 rent and $408,000 median home value are among the highest in this group, but its $76,576 median income dwarfs neighbors like Granite ($54,646) and Hill ($55,313), making housing proportionally affordable. Owner costs of $1,166 monthly reflect the premium market.
Wealth enables housing comfort
Jefferson County renters spend $886 monthly and owners $1,166 on a median income of $76,576, yielding the group's lowest 13.9% ratio. Higher absolute costs are manageable here because incomes have risen to match them.
Premium living for premium earners
Jefferson County offers Montana's best housing affordability ratio, but only if your income matches—median earnings here top $76,000. If you're relocating with a strong salary, this county rewards it with comfort and good value relative to income.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jefferson County
Rent Burden
13.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,787
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.3%
of gross income
The median home in Jefferson County may be a stretch
Median home value is $408,000. Estimated monthly cost: $3,257 vs. your max of $1,787.
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.