Cost of Living in Delaware County, Oklahoma
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Delaware County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Delaware County ranks #2,621 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 17%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Delaware County, Oklahoma
Delaware County rents strain household budgets
Delaware County's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio approaches the threshold where housing affordability becomes a concern, particularly for residents with lower incomes. Renters earning $55,114 median income allocate nearly one-fifth of their earnings to a median rent of $868 monthly.
Above-average pressure on Delaware renters
Delaware County's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Oklahoma's 17.0% state average, placing it among the less affordable counties for renters across the state. This gap suggests local rents have outpaced wage growth, creating affordability challenges relative to other Oklahoma communities.
Higher rents, mixed affordability advantage
Delaware County's $868 rent ranks high among the eight counties, second only to Creek County's $910, yet its 18.9% rent-to-income burden is lower than Craig County's 19.8%. The difference reflects Delaware's slightly higher median income helping offset elevated rents.
Renters carry more than homeowners
Delaware County renters bear an 18.9% housing burden with median rent of $868, while homeowners commit just 14.3% to a median monthly cost of $656. This stark difference makes homeownership significantly more accessible for those able to qualify, though lower median income may limit buyer pool.
Delaware County demands homeownership planning
For job seekers considering Delaware County, prioritize homeownership as the path to affordability—monthly mortgage costs are $212 cheaper than rents despite a $164,900 median home value. If renting, budget carefully: at $868 monthly, housing will consume nearly a fifth of household income.
Cost of Living Advisory: Delaware County
Affordability Verdict
Delaware County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $868/month representing approximately 18.9% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 26.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $868/month rent versus $656/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $212/month cheaper — a 24% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,720/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $28,114/year. With a median household income of $55,114, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Delaware County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Delaware County sits 6% less expensive than Payne County ($922/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Delaware County
Rent Burden
18.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,286
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.3%
of gross income
The median home in Delaware County may be a stretch
Median home value is $164,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,316 vs. your max of $1,286.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Delaware County, Oklahoma?
What is the median rent in Delaware County?
Is Delaware County affordable?
How does Delaware County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Delaware County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Delaware County, Oklahoma? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Delaware County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.