Cost of Living in McKenzie County, North Dakota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How McKenzie County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
McKenzie County ranks #1,721 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 45%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in McKenzie County, North Dakota
McKenzie County faces tight housing affordability
McKenzie County's 15.7% rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds the national standard of 12%, signaling housing cost pressure despite the county's strong median income of $88,289. At $1,153 monthly rent—50% above the national norm—McKenzie's tight affordability reflects the cost premium of regional demand and energy sector activity.
McKenzie County's housing costs lead the state
With a 15.7% rent-to-income ratio and median rent of $1,153, McKenzie County far outpaces the North Dakota state average of 12.8% rent-to-income and $770 median rent. The county's housing pressures remain the most acute in this statewide cluster, despite above-average incomes.
McKenzie runs 50% higher than neighboring counties
McKenzie County's $1,153 monthly rent dwarfs McIntosh County at $600 and McHenry County at $737, reflecting distinct regional economic forces. Even against Mercer County at $1,043 and Morton County at $1,036, McKenzie's costs remain notably elevated.
McKenzie dedicates 16% of income to housing
Renters pay $1,153 monthly while homeowners face $1,151, nearly identical costs reflecting hot demand for both rental and owned housing. With median home values at $357,300—the highest across all comparison counties—McKenzie residents invest heavily in their housing decisions.
McKenzie offers opportunity with affordability trade-offs
McKenzie County's high incomes and economic opportunities come with a cost: housing consumes 15.7% of household income, the tightest ratio in this cluster. If you're relocating for work in energy or agriculture, compare McKenzie's costs against neighboring options like Mercer or Morton County before deciding.
Cost of Living Advisory: McKenzie County
Affordability Verdict
McKenzie County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,153/month — about 15.7% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,153/month rent versus $1,151/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $2/month cheaper — a 0% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $46,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $49,329/year. With a median household income of $88,289, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 19.0% of renter households in McKenzie County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Divide County where rent averages $1,064/month, McKenzie County is approximately 8% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in McKenzie County
Rent Burden
15.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,060
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.6%
of gross income
The median home in McKenzie County may be a stretch
Median home value is $357,300. Estimated monthly cost: $2,852 vs. your max of $2,060.
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 McKenzie County, North Dakota?
What is the median rent in McKenzie County?
Is McKenzie County affordable?
How does McKenzie County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in McKenzie County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in McKenzie County, North Dakota? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in McKenzie 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.