Cost of Living in Ottawa County, Oklahoma
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Ottawa County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Ottawa County, Oklahoma
Ottawa County's rents stretch incomes tighter
Ottawa County residents spend 18.8% of income on rent, crossing into the "cost-burdened" territory that housing experts flag as unsustainable. With a median household income of $48,656—35% below the national average—renters here face real affordability pressure despite modest rent prices.
Below-average affordability in Oklahoma
Ottawa County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.8% exceeds Oklahoma's 17.0% state average, placing it in the less-affordable half of the state's counties. The squeeze reflects lower household incomes relative to rental costs across the county.
Modest rents with income challenges
Ottawa County's $764 rent rivals Osage County's ($786) for affordability but does so on a household income $11,826 lower, making the ratio worse. Compared to higher-earning Pontotoc County ($62,564 median income), Ottawa renters face steeper percentage-based burdens.
Homeownership offers better value here
Renters in Ottawa spend $764 monthly while homeowners pay just $690, making mortgage costs 10% cheaper than rents—unusual among these counties. The median home value of $114,300 is the lowest in this group, offering an entry point for buyers with limited capital.
Ottawa suits homebuyers on tight budgets
If owning matters more than renting, Ottawa County's low home values and affordable mortgage costs ($690/month) outpace rental affordability significantly. Verify your income aligns with the $48,656 median and explore mortgage pre-qualification to understand your real buying power.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Ottawa County
Rent Burden
18.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,135
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Ottawa County
Median home value is $114,300. Estimated monthly cost: $912 vs. your max of $1,135.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.