Cost of Living in Mercer County, North Dakota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Mercer County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Mercer County, North Dakota
Mercer County faces affordability headwinds
Mercer County's 15.8% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the national standard of 12%, indicating housing costs that consume a larger share of income than typical. At $1,043 monthly rent against a median household income of $79,405, renters here face tighter budget constraints than national norms.
Mercer County ranks among the least affordable
With a 15.8% rent-to-income ratio, Mercer County significantly outpaces the North Dakota state average of 12.8%, making it one of the state's costlier rental markets. Its median rent of $1,043 represents a 35% premium over the state's $770 median.
Mercer's costs rival other energy-region counties
Mercer County's $1,043 rent closely tracks Morton County at $1,036 and McKenzie County at $1,153, reflecting shared economic pressures in the state's energy corridor. All three counties push significantly above the state median, though Mercer sits in the middle range.
Mercer dedicates 16% of income to housing
Renters pay $1,043 monthly while homeowners pay $794, creating an unusual gap suggesting rental market tightness relative to owner costs. On a $79,405 median income, the 15.8% rent-to-income ratio leaves limited flexibility for other priorities.
Mercer demands careful housing budget planning
If relocating to Mercer County, factor its 15.8% rent-to-income ratio into your budget planning, as housing costs run 23% above the state average. Compare it against more affordable counties like McIntosh or McHenry if housing cost is a primary consideration.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Mercer County
Rent Burden
15.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,853
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Mercer County
Median home value is $196,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,566 vs. your max of $1,853.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.