Cost of Living in Golden Valley County, North Dakota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Golden Valley County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Golden Valley County ranks #130 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 4%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Golden Valley County, North Dakota
Golden Valley rents are more affordable than U.S. average
Golden Valley County's rent-to-income ratio of 13.4% sits comfortably above the national benchmark, meaning renters here spend a smaller share of their paychecks on housing. With a median household income of $76,528—slightly above the national median of $74,755—residents enjoy breathing room that many Americans lack.
Better than average across North Dakota
Golden Valley's 13.4% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the state average of 12.8%, placing it in the middle tier of North Dakota affordability. Median rent of $856 runs slightly above the state median of $770, yet incomes here support that difference.
Balanced housing costs in rural heartland
Golden Valley's median rent of $856 and median home value of $119,200 position it as moderately priced compared to nearby counties. Griggs County offers cheaper rents at $606, while Grand Forks County pushes higher at $971 for renters seeking urban amenities.
Rent and ownership both reasonable
Renters in Golden Valley spend about $856 monthly while homeowners pay $525 for mortgages—both manageable on the county's $76,528 median income. Housing consumes roughly 13% of household earnings, leaving funds for other necessities.
Consider Golden Valley for stable housing costs
If you're relocating to rural North Dakota and want solid affordability without sacrificing income potential, Golden Valley deserves a look. Compare your household income against the $856 rent or $119,200 home price to see if the numbers work for you.
Cost of Living Advisory: Golden Valley County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Golden Valley County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $856/month in gross rent, with 20.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $856/month rent versus $525/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $331/month cheaper — a 39% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,240/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $22,500/year. With a median household income of $76,528, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 20.0% of renter households in Golden Valley County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Golden Valley County sits 8% less expensive than Cass County ($930/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Golden Valley County
Rent Burden
13.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,786
per month
Owner Cost Burden
8.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Golden Valley County
Median home value is $119,200. Estimated monthly cost: $952 vs. your max of $1,786.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Golden Valley County, North Dakota?
What is the median rent in Golden Valley County?
Is Golden Valley County affordable?
How does Golden Valley County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Golden Valley County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Golden Valley County, North Dakota? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Golden Valley County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.