Cost of Living in Steele County, North Dakota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Steele County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Steele County ranks #10 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 0%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Steele County, North Dakota
Steele County offers above-average affordability
At 9.4%, Steele County's rent-to-income ratio is notably below the national norm, reflecting a county where modest rents meet solid incomes. With median household income of $80,313 and rent at just $630 monthly, residents enjoy genuine housing affordability compared to typical American households.
Best-in-class North Dakota affordability
Steele County ranks among North Dakota's most affordable, with a 9.4% rent-to-income ratio well below the state average of 12.8%. The $630 median rent runs below the state average of $770, while median income of $80,313 exceeds most county peers.
Strong value vs. wealthier neighbors
Steele County's $630 rent undercuts Sargent ($835) and Stark ($966) while staying affordable relative to income. At $120,400, median home values fall between rural bargains like Sheridan ($107,700) and pricier neighbors, offering efficient value for homebuyers.
Renters and owners both get good deals
Renters spend 9.4% of income on $630 monthly rent, while homeowners dedicate 9.9% to $661 owner costs—among the state's lowest percentages. This efficiency holds even among homebuyers, suggesting Steele County delivers broad-based affordability.
Balance of affordability and income strength
If you're relocating to North Dakota and housing affordability matters, Steele County delivers genuine value without sacrificing local earning potential. Strong income combined with below-average housing costs makes this county a standout choice for budget-conscious movers.
Cost of Living Advisory: Steele County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Steele County is affordable. The median rent is $630/month against a median household income of $80,313, putting rent at 9.4% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Steele County pay $630/month on average, compared to $661/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 5%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $25,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $28,329/year. With a median household income of $80,313, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 17.0% of renter households in Steele County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Ramsey County where rent averages $687/month, Steele County is approximately 8% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Steele County
Rent Burden
9.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,874
per month
Owner Cost Burden
9.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Steele County
Median home value is $120,400. Estimated monthly cost: $961 vs. your max of $1,874.
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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