Cost of Living in McLean County, North Dakota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How McLean County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
McLean County ranks #586 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 19%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in McLean County, North Dakota
McLean County maintains solid national affordability
McLean County's 11.3% rent-to-income ratio sits just below the national standard of 12%, providing reliable affordability for both renters and homeowners. With median household income at $81,847—9% above the national median—residents maintain strong financial capacity for housing and other expenses.
McLean County ranks favorably within North Dakota
At 11.3% rent-to-income, McLean County beats the state average of 12.8%, while its median rent of $768 nearly matches the state norm at $770. The county delivers consistent, state-competitive affordability for renting households.
McLean sits in the middle of the affordability band
McLean County's $768 median rent falls just above McHenry's $737 while remaining significantly lower than McKenzie's $1,153, positioning it as a mid-range option. Its 11.3% rent-to-income ratio groups it with McHenry and McIntosh as among the state's most affordable counties.
Housing costs balanced between rent and ownership
Renters pay $768 monthly while homeowners pay $831, with median home values at $233,100 reflecting moderate appreciation and stable demand. On a $81,847 median income, just 11.3% goes to rent, preserving substantial household purchasing power.
McLean offers accessible ownership pathways
For relocators seeking homeownership, McLean County combines moderate home values at $233,100 with above-average incomes and 11.3% rent-to-income affordability. The county's balanced rental and ownership markets make it a solid choice for families weighing their housing options in rural North Dakota.
Cost of Living Advisory: McLean County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in McLean County is affordable. The median rent is $768/month against a median household income of $81,847, putting rent at 11.3% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in McLean County pay $768/month on average, compared to $831/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 8%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,720/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $35,614/year. With a median household income of $81,847, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 21.0% of renter households in McLean County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Ransom County where rent averages $710/month, McLean County is approximately 8% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in McLean County
Rent Burden
11.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,910
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in McLean County
Median home value is $233,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,861 vs. your max of $1,910.
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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