Cost of Living in Oliver County, North Dakota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Oliver County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Oliver County ranks #19 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 1%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Oliver County, North Dakota
Oliver County rents are a bargain
At 11.3%, Oliver County's rent-to-income ratio beats the national average and stays well below the strain point of 30%. Renters here spend less of their paycheck on housing than typical Americans, giving them more breathing room in their budgets.
Best affordability in North Dakota
Oliver County ranks among the state's most affordable housing markets, with a rent-to-income ratio of 11.3% compared to North Dakota's state average of 12.8%. The median rent of $725 sits below the state median of $770, making it a standout for renters seeking value.
Oliver leads a competitive region
Oliver County's $725 monthly rent undercuts most nearby counties, though Pembina County ($692) and Rolette County ($479) offer even lower rents. With a median household income of $76,953—the highest in this cluster—Oliver residents enjoy both strong earnings and reasonable housing costs.
Housing takes 22% of income
Oliver County residents spend roughly 11.3% of income on rent and another 12.2% on mortgage costs, totaling about 23.5% of income for housing. The median home value of $217,000 remains accessible given the area's solid median household income of $76,953.
Consider Oliver for stability
If you're relocating to North Dakota and want both affordable rents and strong income potential, Oliver County delivers on both fronts. Compare it to nearby Ramsey County ($61,319 income, 13.4% rent ratio) or Pembina County ($66,884 income, 12.4% rent ratio) to find your best fit.
Cost of Living Advisory: Oliver County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Oliver County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $725/month in gross rent, with 21.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Oliver County is $725/month, while owner costs run $782/month. Renting saves approximately $57/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,000/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $33,514/year. With a median household income of $76,953, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 21.0% of renter households in Oliver County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within North Dakota, Oliver County is less affordable than Barnes County by roughly 7% ($725/mo vs $779/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Oliver County
Rent Burden
11.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,796
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Oliver County
Median home value is $217,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,732 vs. your max of $1,796.
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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