Cost of Living in Washington County, Oklahoma
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Washington County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Washington County ranks #2,361 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 25%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Washington County, Oklahoma
Washington renters pay above national average
Washington County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.7% exceeds the national standard, meaning housing eats a larger slice of local paychecks. With a median household income of $61,205—well below the national median of $74,755—residents here face tighter housing affordability pressures.
Among Oklahoma's less affordable counties
At 17.7%, Washington County's rent-to-income ratio exceeds the state average of 17.0%, placing it among Oklahoma's tougher housing markets. The median rent of $903 is slightly above the state norm, compounding affordability challenges for renters.
Washington faces steeper rents than peers
Washington County's 17.7% rent-to-income ratio is higher than Washita (15.0%), Woodward (15.6%), and Wagoner (16.1%). Only Woods County at 19.1% faces worse rents relative to income, making Washington a middle-of-the-road option in the region.
Renters and buyers both feel the squeeze
Median gross rent stands at $903 monthly, while homeowners pay $848—a rare case where buying is cheaper. Against a median household income of $61,205 annually ($5,100 monthly), renters are spending over 17% of earnings on housing, limiting flexibility elsewhere.
Washington works if you're buying, not renting
If you're a renter seeking affordability, Washington County presents challenges; if you're a homebuyer, median home values near $160,900 and owner costs under $850 offer genuine opportunity. Compare this county carefully against lower-burden markets like Washita or Woodward before deciding.
Cost of Living Advisory: Washington County
Affordability Verdict
Washington County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $903/month representing approximately 17.7% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 30.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Washington County is $903/month, while owner costs run $848/month. Owning saves approximately $55/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $36,343/year. With a median household income of $61,205, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Washington County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Washington County sits 7% more expensive than Woodward County ($847/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Washington County
Rent Burden
17.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,428
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Washington County
Median home value is $160,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,285 vs. your max of $1,428.
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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