Cost of Living in Cass County, North Dakota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Cass County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Cass County ranks #2,628 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 16%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Cass County, North Dakota
Cass rents edge above the national norm
At 14.9%, Cass County's rent-to-income ratio runs 2.1 percentage points higher than the national median, meaning renters here devote a larger slice of paychecks to housing. With a median household income of $75,023—nearly matching the national average of $74,755—Cass renters pay $930 monthly, stretching affordability tighter than typical U.S. households.
Cass ranks among North Dakota's pricier counties
Cass County's 14.9% rent-to-income ratio places it above North Dakota's state average of 12.8%, making it one of the state's more expensive housing markets. The county's median rent of $930 significantly outpaces the state average of $770, reflecting its status as North Dakota's second-largest metropolitan area.
Fargo-area housing costs set Cass apart
Cass County renters pay $930 monthly—roughly $160 more than neighbors like Cavalier County ($859) and Foster County ($756). Even compared to similarly sized Divide County, Cass residents face noticeably steeper rental costs, though its higher median income of $75,023 provides some cushion.
Housing takes 14.9% of Cass household income
Cass renters spend $930 monthly while mortgage holders pay $1,440, reflecting the county's substantial homeownership costs. With a median home value of $284,700—the highest among these eight counties—ownership demands significant financial commitment, though the median household income of $75,023 provides reasonable support.
Consider Cass for urban perks and jobs
If you're relocating to North Dakota, Cass County offers the region's strongest job market and metro amenities, though housing costs run higher than rural alternatives. Renters comfortable with 14.9% of income going to housing will find a vibrant community; home buyers should compare Cass's $284,700 median value against more affordable counties like Eddy ($115,500) or Emmons ($112,400).
Cost of Living Advisory: Cass County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Cass County is affordable. The median rent is $930/month against a median household income of $75,023, putting rent at 14.9% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Cass County pay $930/month on average, compared to $1,440/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 35%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $37,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $61,714/year. With a median household income of $75,023, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Cass County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Cass County sits 7% more expensive than Bowman County ($869/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Cass County
Rent Burden
14.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,751
per month
Owner Cost Burden
23.0%
of gross income
The median home in Cass County may be a stretch
Median home value is $284,700. Estimated monthly cost: $2,273 vs. your max of $1,751.
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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