Cost of Living in Cotton County, Oklahoma
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Cotton County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Cotton County ranks #2,380 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 24%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Cotton County, Oklahoma
Cotton County rents: Below national pressure
At 14.8%, Cotton County's rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national affordability threshold of roughly 28%. Renters here spend less of their paycheck on housing than their peers across the country, thanks to a median rent of $742 per month against a median household income of $60,313.
Oklahoma's affordability sweet spot
Cotton County leads the state in housing affordability, ranking among the most livable counties in Oklahoma. Its 14.8% rent-to-income ratio beats the state average of 17.0%, making it a standout for renters seeking value.
A refuge in the rural panhandle
Cotton County's $742 rent is the lowest among regional peers, undercutting neighboring Ellis County ($728) and Craig County ($826) while matching affordability advantages across the panhandle. Homebuyers will appreciate a median value of $113,200—the lowest in this group and ideal for first-time purchasers.
Rent and mortgages add up fairly
Cotton County renters allocate 14.8% of their $60,313 income to rent, while homeowners dedicate roughly 13.4% to a median monthly cost of $675. Together, housing absorbs under 28% of household budgets—well within the recommended threshold for financial stability.
Ready to settle affordably?
Cotton County offers Oklahoma's most balanced housing market for workers seeking lower cost of living without sacrificing access to homeownership. Whether you're renting at $742 or buying at a median home value under $115,000, your housing dollars stretch further here than in most of Oklahoma.
Cost of Living Advisory: Cotton County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Cotton County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $742/month in gross rent, with 21.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Cotton County pay $742/month on average, compared to $675/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 9%.
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 $28,929/year. With a median household income of $60,313, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 21.0% of renter households in Cotton County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Cotton County sits 8% more expensive than Okfuskee County ($689/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Cotton County
Rent Burden
14.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,407
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Cotton County
Median home value is $113,200. Estimated monthly cost: $904 vs. your max of $1,407.
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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