Cost of Living in Richland County, Montana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Richland County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Richland County ranks #1,320 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 42%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Richland County, Montana
Richland stays below national affordability strain
Richland County's 14.9% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national benchmark of around 15.9%, making it one of Montana's more affordable rental markets. With a median household income of $69,578 and median rent of $866, households here maintain breathing room in housing budgets.
Montana's sweet spot for affordability
Richland ranks among Montana's most affordable counties, with its 14.9% rent-to-income ratio undercutting the state average of 15.9% by a full percentage point. Median rent matches the state average exactly at $825, offering solid stability for renters.
Competitive with northeastern Montana peers
Richland's $866 monthly rent positions it slightly above neighboring Roosevelt County ($707) but below Sheridan County ($749). As an agricultural hub in the northeast, Richland offers moderate housing costs aligned with the region's rural character.
Richland's balanced housing economics
Renters allocate 14.9% of a $69,578 median income—or $866 monthly—to housing costs. Homeowners carry a $825 monthly payment for a median home value of $259,000, making both rental and ownership accessible compared to state and national benchmarks.
A stable choice for budget-conscious movers
Richland offers rare affordability equilibrium: rents match the state average while rent-to-income ratios beat it. If you're relocating to Montana and prioritizing stable, sustainable housing costs, Richland's northeastern location and balanced economics merit serious consideration.
Cost of Living Advisory: Richland County
Affordability Verdict
Richland County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $866/month — about 14.9% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Richland County is $866/month, while owner costs run $825/month. Owning saves approximately $41/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,640/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $35,357/year. With a median household income of $69,578, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 22.0% of renter households in Richland County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Richland County sits 6% less expensive than Custer County ($918/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Richland County
Rent Burden
14.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,623
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.2%
of gross income
The median home in Richland County may be a stretch
Median home value is $259,000. Estimated monthly cost: $2,068 vs. your max of $1,623.
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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