Cost of Living in Pawnee County, Oklahoma
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Pawnee County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Pawnee County ranks #2,234 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 29%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Pawnee County, Oklahoma
Pawnee County rents edge into cost-burden
Pawnee County renters spend 18.2% of household income on rent, just above the affordability threshold and slightly worse than the national average. Despite a median income of $57,551 that's still 23% below the U.S. median, the county's higher rent prices ($872/month) create noticeable housing stress.
Above-state-average housing burden
Pawnee County's 18.2% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Oklahoma's 17.0% average, placing it among the state's less-affordable rental markets. The county's $872 median rent is the highest among these eight counties, contributing to the affordability gap.
Highest rents among peer counties
Pawnee's median rent of $872 runs $86 higher than Osage County and $108 more than Ottawa County, despite similar or lower household incomes. This cost premium, combined with modest incomes, pushes rent burdens beyond neighboring alternatives.
Renters stretched, owners comfortable
Renters spend $872 monthly—18.2% of income—while homeowners pay just $611, making homeownership notably more affordable in Pawnee County. The median home value of $125,700 creates opportunity for first-time buyers seeking relief from rental costs.
Pawnee renters should weigh homeownership
If you're renting in Pawnee, the affordability math suggests exploring homeownership; mortgage costs run 30% cheaper than rent here. Compare your household income to the $57,551 median and consult a lender about whether buying could improve your housing cost burden.
Cost of Living Advisory: Pawnee County
Affordability Verdict
Pawnee County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $872/month — about 18.2% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $872/month rent versus $611/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $261/month cheaper — a 30% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,880/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $26,186/year. With a median household income of $57,551, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Pawnee County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Beckham County where rent averages $821/month, Pawnee County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Pawnee County
Rent Burden
18.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,343
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Pawnee County
Median home value is $125,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,004 vs. your max of $1,343.
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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