Cost of Living in McCone County, Montana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How McCone County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
McCone County ranks #11 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 0%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in McCone County, Montana
McCone County offers exceptional affordability
McCone County's 9.1% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest among these eight counties and dramatically below the national 15% standard and Montana's 15.9% state average. At $543 per month, the median rent is 34% cheaper than the state average, making it one of Montana's most affordable rental markets.
Montana's affordability champion
McCone County ranks among the best for rental affordability statewide, with its 9.1% ratio nearly half Montana's 15.9% average. This northeastern county combines low rents with median household income of $71,842—close to the national median—creating a uniquely favorable housing cost environment.
Far cheaper than nearby and distant counties
McCone's $543 rent undercuts every other county in this survey by wide margins: Liberty County ($668), Lincoln County ($810), and the western counties ranging from $1,062 to $1,159. This dramatic advantage reflects McCone's remote rural character and limited real estate demand competition.
Housing costs barely dent household budgets
Renters earning the median $71,842 spend approximately $6,516 annually on rent—just 9.1% of gross income—leaving substantial funds for other necessities. Homeowners paying $635 monthly ($7,620 yearly) enjoy similarly low ownership costs relative to income, with median home values of $197,400.
Remote workers should consider McCone seriously
McCone County's 9.1% rent-to-income ratio and $543 rents create unbeatable affordability for remote workers or those with portable income. Rural isolation and limited local services are trade-offs, but if you can work from anywhere, McCone offers exceptional financial breathing room.
Cost of Living Advisory: McCone County
Affordability Verdict
McCone County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $543/month — about 9.1% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $543/month rent versus $635/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $92/month cheaper — a 14% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $21,720/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $27,214/year. With a median household income of $71,842, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 15.0% of renter households in McCone County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Montana, McCone County is more affordable than Chouteau County by roughly 12% ($543/mo vs $485/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in McCone County
Rent Burden
9.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,676
per month
Owner Cost Burden
10.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in McCone County
Median home value is $197,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,576 vs. your max of $1,676.
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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