Cost of Living in McHenry County, North Dakota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How McHenry County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
McHenry County ranks #86 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 3%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in McHenry County, North Dakota
McHenry County beats the national affordability mark
At 11.0%, McHenry County's rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national threshold of 12%, meaning housing costs consume less of household income here than for the average American. With a median household income of $80,614—7% above the national median of $74,755—residents enjoy stronger income cushion for other expenses.
Among North Dakota's most affordable counties
McHenry County's 11.0% rent-to-income ratio ranks it in the affordable tier statewide, outpacing the North Dakota average of 12.8%. Renters here pay $737 per month against an 8% lower cost compared to the state median rent of $770.
McHenry stays competitive with similar counties
McHenry County's $737 median rent falls between neighboring McIntosh County at $600 and McLean County at $768, offering a middle-ground option. Its 11.0% rent-to-income ratio matches McIntosh's affordability while maintaining higher median incomes than most comparable rural counties.
Housing takes 11% of income in McHenry
Renters spend $737 monthly while homeowners pay $712, a notably balanced split reflecting the county's mixed housing market. With median household income at $80,614, both renting and buying allow substantial room in household budgets for savings and other priorities.
Consider McHenry for balanced affordability
If you're weighing North Dakota counties for relocation, McHenry County delivers above-average income levels paired with below-state-average housing costs. Compare its 11.0% rent-to-income ratio against McKenzie County's tight 15.7% to see how location choices directly impact your financial flexibility.
Cost of Living Advisory: McHenry County
Affordability Verdict
McHenry County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $737/month — about 11.0% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in McHenry County pay $737/month on average, compared to $712/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 3%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,480/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $30,514/year. With a median household income of $80,614, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 17.0% of renter households in McHenry County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
McHenry County sits 9% less expensive than Pierce County ($807/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in McHenry County
Rent Burden
11.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,881
per month
Owner Cost Burden
10.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in McHenry County
Median home value is $143,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,143 vs. your max of $1,881.
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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