Cost of Living in Baker County, Oregon
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Baker County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Baker County ranks #2,807 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 11%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Baker County, Oregon
Baker County's Rent Burden: Below National Average
Baker County residents spend just 16.9% of income on rent, well below the national norm and among the most affordable in Oregon. The county's median household income of $57,844 is lower than the nation's $74,755, but housing costs here reflect that difference proportionally.
Most Affordable Rental Market in Oregon
Baker County ranks as one of Oregon's most affordable counties for renters, with a rent-to-income ratio of 16.9% compared to the state average of 19.4%. At $814 per month, median rent is $323 below Oregon's state average, making it a genuine outlier in the region.
Cheapest Rent Among Eastern Oregon Peers
Baker County's $814 median rent undercuts nearby Crook County ($1,224) and Curry County ($1,156) by 33% and 30% respectively. Even though baker County's income is lower than these neighbors, the rent savings make it genuinely more affordable for working families.
Rent and Ownership Both Reasonable Here
Renters pay $814 monthly while homeowners spend $913, leaving most households with more than 83% of income for other expenses. At a median home value of $247,700, ownership is the most attainable in Oregon's comparison group.
Move to Baker for Affordability
If housing costs are squeezing your budget, Baker County offers Oregon's most forgiving rent-to-income ratio and some of the state's lowest absolute rents. You'll trade urban amenities for financial breathing room—a tradeoff that pays off clearly in the numbers.
Cost of Living Advisory: Baker County
Affordability Verdict
Baker County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $814/month — about 16.9% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Baker County is $814/month, while owner costs run $913/month. Renting saves approximately $99/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,560/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $39,129/year. With a median household income of $57,844, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Baker County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Oregon, Baker County is less affordable than Morrow County by roughly 11% ($814/mo vs $910/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Baker County
Rent Burden
16.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,350
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.9%
of gross income
The median home in Baker County may be a stretch
Median home value is $247,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,977 vs. your max of $1,350.
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 Baker County, Oregon?
What is the median rent in Baker County?
Is Baker County affordable?
How does Baker County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Baker County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Baker County, Oregon? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Baker 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.