Cost of Living in Clackamas County, Oregon
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Clackamas County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Clackamas County ranks #2,794 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 11%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Clackamas County, Oregon
Clackamas: Highest Income, Still Tight Housing
Clackamas County has Oregon's highest median household income at $100,360—34% above the national average—yet renters still spend 20.2% of earnings on rent. This paradox reveals how rapidly housing costs have outpaced income growth in the Portland suburbs.
Prosperity Doesn't Equal Affordability Here
Despite leading Oregon counties in median income, Clackamas ranks near the state average for affordability with a 20.2% rent-to-income ratio. Its $1,693 median rent (49% above state average) and $577,900 median home value make it Oregon's priciest market in this group.
Clackamas County's Suburban Premium
Clackamas's $1,693 rent and $577,900 home values significantly exceed those in Columbia ($1,221 rent, $390,600 homes) and Benton ($1,359 rent, $481,700 homes). The Portland suburb premium reflects strong demand but limits affordability even for high-earning households.
High Income Can't Offset Premium Costs
Renters allocate $1,693 monthly (20.2% of income) while homeowners spend $1,972, leaving households with less cushion despite six-figure incomes. At $577,900, median home prices mean most buyers need substantial savings or dual high incomes.
Clackamas for Those with Strong Incomes
Clackamas County rewards high earners seeking suburban Portland access, excellent schools, and strong job markets—but it's the nation's most expensive county in this analysis. If you're making well above regional averages and prioritize commute convenience, the numbers work; otherwise, explore counties farther from the metro core.
Cost of Living Advisory: Clackamas County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Clackamas County is affordable. The median rent is $1,693/month against a median household income of $100,360, putting rent at 20.2% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,693/month rent versus $1,972/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $279/month cheaper — a 14% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $67,720/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $84,514/year. With a median household income of $100,360, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 33.0% of renter households in Clackamas County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Clackamas County sits 5% less expensive than Washington County ($1,773/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Clackamas County
Rent Burden
20.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,342
per month
Owner Cost Burden
23.6%
of gross income
The median home in Clackamas County may be a stretch
Median home value is $577,900. Estimated monthly cost: $4,614 vs. your max of $2,342.
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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