Cost of Living in Barnes County, North Dakota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Barnes County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Barnes County, North Dakota
Barnes County rents outpace national affordability
At 13.3%, Barnes County's rent-to-income ratio runs above the national average, placing renters under more pressure than typical American households. The median rent of $779 per month reflects higher costs than many rural peers, though household income of $70,230 sits below the national median of $74,755.
Slightly less affordable than the state average
Barnes County ranks below middle in North Dakota's affordability spectrum, with renters spending 13.3% of income on housing versus the state average of 12.8%. The gap widens when comparing median rent: Barnes at $779 exceeds the state average of $770, suggesting tighter housing markets here.
Pricier than Adams, cheaper than Burleigh
Barnes County's $779 rent positions it higher than rural Adams County ($545) but well below Burleigh County's $996, reflecting its middle ground in North Dakota's cost spectrum. Homebuyers face median prices of $168,100, more affordable than Burleigh County's $314,700 but steeper than Adams County's $108,300.
Rent and mortgages both climb here
Renters in Barnes County spend $779 monthly (13.3% of income) while homeowners pay $844, creating one of the higher dual-cost burdens in the state. With a median home value of $168,100 on a $70,230 income, buying power requires careful budgeting.
Balance affordability against opportunity here
Barnes County works best for relocators with household incomes near $70,000 or higher who can absorb its 13.3% rent-to-income ratio. If you're earning less, nearby Adams or Benson counties may deliver better value; if you need more urban services, the cost premium may be worth it.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Barnes County
Rent Burden
13.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,639
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Barnes County
Median home value is $168,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,342 vs. your max of $1,639.
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.