Cost of Living in Benton County, Oregon
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Benton County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Benton County ranks #2,831 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 10%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Benton County, Oregon
Benton County: Pricier Than National Average
Benton County's rent-to-income ratio of 21.4% exceeds both Oregon's state average (19.4%) and reflects stronger housing demand typical of college towns. Though median income here ($76,011) edges above the national median ($74,755), housing costs are climbing faster.
Benton Ranks Among Oregon's Pricier Markets
With a 21.4% rent-to-income ratio, Benton County is less affordable than most Oregon counties, driven partly by Oregon State University's presence in Corvallis. Median rent of $1,359 runs 19% above the state average of $1,137.
Benton's Housing Costs Reflect College-Town Pressures
Benton County's $1,359 rent is higher than Columbia County ($1,221) and Crook County ($1,224), reflecting Corvallis's regional role as an education and tech hub. Even so, homes here average $481,700—less than nearby Clackamas County's $577,900.
Over 1 in 5 Income Goes to Rent
Renters in Benton County spend $1,359 monthly (21.4% of income), while homeowners pay $1,484—both above state norms. The median home value of $481,700 means many households must choose: rent affordably or buy at a premium.
Benton Works for Professionals, Not Budget Hunters
Benton County suits higher-income professionals drawn to its tech ecosystem and university community, but tight budgets should look south or east. Your dollar stretches further in Baker, Columbia, or Crook counties while remaining in central Oregon.
Cost of Living Advisory: Benton County
Affordability Verdict
Benton County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,359/month representing approximately 21.5% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 38.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,359/month rent versus $1,484/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $125/month cheaper — a 8% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $54,360/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $63,600/year. With a median household income of $76,011, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 38.0% of renter households in Benton County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Lane County where rent averages $1,287/month, Benton County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Benton County
Rent Burden
21.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,774
per month
Owner Cost Burden
23.4%
of gross income
The median home in Benton County may be a stretch
Median home value is $481,700. Estimated monthly cost: $3,846 vs. your max of $1,774.
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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