Cost of Living in Lincoln County, Montana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lincoln County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Lincoln County ranks #799 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 25%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lincoln County, Montana
Lincoln County renters face steep affordability
Lincoln County's 20.7% rent-to-income ratio far exceeds both the national benchmark (15%) and Montana's state average (15.9%), making it one of Montana's least affordable rental markets. Renters earning the county median of $47,018 spend $810 monthly—a hefty 20.7% of their income—on housing.
Among Montana's worst for renters
At 20.7%, Lincoln County's rent-to-income ratio ranks well above the state average, placing it among the most challenging markets for renters statewide. This northwest county struggles with a combination of elevated rents relative to its lower median income of $47,018, the lowest among these eight counties.
More expensive than similar western counties
Lincoln County's $810 rent exceeds nearby Liberty County ($668) and McCone County ($543), yet falls short of the higher costs in Madison County ($1,159) and Missoula County ($1,125). Its affordability crisis stems from limited local income opportunities rather than premium housing demand.
Housing dominates tight household budgets
Renters earning the median $47,018 annually dedicate nearly $9,720 to rent, consuming more than one-fifth of gross income before taxes and other expenses. Homeowners paying $681 monthly ($8,172 yearly) fare slightly better, but both groups experience serious housing cost burdens given the county's limited wage base.
Relocate only with secured income gains
Lincoln County's 20.7% rent-to-income ratio signals serious affordability strain—only consider moving here if you're bringing higher income (remote work, relocation package) or can live with family. Compare your household income carefully; those earning significantly above the $47,018 median will fare better.
Cost of Living Advisory: Lincoln County
Affordability Verdict
Lincoln County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $810/month — about 20.7% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Lincoln County is $810/month, while owner costs run $681/month. Owning saves approximately $129/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,400/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $29,186/year. With a median household income of $47,018, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Lincoln County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Montana, Lincoln County is less affordable than Musselshell County by roughly 6% ($810/mo vs $865/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lincoln County
Rent Burden
20.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,097
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.4%
of gross income
The median home in Lincoln County may be a stretch
Median home value is $258,700. Estimated monthly cost: $2,065 vs. your max of $1,097.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Lincoln County, Montana?
What is the median rent in Lincoln County?
Is Lincoln County affordable?
How does Lincoln County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Lincoln County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Lincoln County, Montana? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Lincoln 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.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.