Cost of Living in Stutsman County, North Dakota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Stutsman County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Stutsman County ranks #1,766 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 44%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Stutsman County, North Dakota
Stutsman County's housing squeeze most evident
At 14.8%, Stutsman County's rent-to-income ratio ranks among the state's worst, driven by relatively modest median income of $60,172 against $742 monthly rent. Residents here dedicate nearly 15 cents of every income dollar to housing—well above national norms—leaving less for other essentials.
Least affordable county in North Dakota
Stutsman County ranks last among North Dakota counties for rental affordability, with a 14.8% rent-to-income ratio significantly above the state average of 12.8%. The combination of below-median income ($60,172) and above-median rent ($742) creates the region's tightest housing squeeze.
Caught between rural and affluent areas
Stutsman's $742 rent falls between affordable rural counties (Sheridan at $373) and expensive ones (Stark at $966), yet the county's below-average income makes the burden feel heavier. Home values at $200,300 exceed most rural neighbors, reflecting Jamestown's presence but not translating to stronger incomes.
Both rent and ownership stretch thin
Renters shoulder a 14.8% housing burden while homeowners pay 16.8% of income toward $843 monthly mortgage costs—the state's harshest owner-cost ratio. For both renters and buyers, housing consumes a substantially larger share of budget than North Dakota norms suggest.
Affordability concerns outweigh other factors
Stutsman County presents real affordability challenges compared to surrounding counties and state averages; renters and homebuyers should carefully assess whether local job prospects justify the higher housing burden. Consider neighboring Steele County or rural alternatives if housing costs are a priority.
Cost of Living Advisory: Stutsman County
Affordability Verdict
Stutsman County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $742/month representing approximately 14.8% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 26.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Stutsman County is $742/month, while owner costs run $843/month. Renting saves approximately $101/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $36,129/year. With a median household income of $60,172, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Stutsman County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Ramsey County where rent averages $687/month, Stutsman County is approximately 8% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Stutsman County
Rent Burden
14.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,404
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.8%
of gross income
The median home in Stutsman County may be a stretch
Median home value is $200,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,599 vs. your max of $1,404.
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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