Cost of Living in Wheatland County, Montana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Wheatland County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Wheatland County ranks #363 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 12%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Wheatland County, Montana
Wheatland's income creates affordability strain
Wheatland County faces the lowest median household income in this analysis at $47,054—nearly $28,000 below the national median of $74,755. Though its 18.9% rent-to-income ratio is manageable by national standards, the combination of low income and relative high rents creates genuine budget pressure.
Challenging affordability in Montana context
Wheatland County's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Montana's highest, well above the state average of 15.9%, signaling tight housing affordability. The $741 rent is among the state's lowest, yet still constitutes a heavy burden on the county's below-average incomes.
Rents competitive, but income lags
Wheatland's $741 rent rivals Teton and Toole for regional affordability, but the county's income of $47,054 is substantially lower than any comparable neighbor. The county offers cheap housing but in the context of limited local earnings.
Rent outweighs ownership affordability
Renters spend $741 monthly (18.9% of the $47,054 income), while homeowners enjoy lower costs at $575 on properties valued near $172,700. For those able to achieve homeownership, Wheatland offers particular relief; renters face tighter budgets here.
Best for homeowners with outside income
Wheatland County suits relocators who can purchase a home outright or with substantial down payment savings, as ownership costs are among Montana's lowest. Renters considering the move should have secure income from outside the county, since local wages are the region's most limited.
Cost of Living Advisory: Wheatland County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Wheatland County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $741/month in gross rent, with 18.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $741/month rent versus $575/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $166/month cheaper — a 22% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,640/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $24,643/year. With a median household income of $47,054, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 18.0% of renter households in Wheatland County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Blaine County where rent averages $689/month, Wheatland County is approximately 8% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Wheatland County
Rent Burden
18.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,098
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.7%
of gross income
The median home in Wheatland County may be a stretch
Median home value is $172,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,379 vs. your max of $1,098.
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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