Cost of Living in Harney County, Oregon
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Harney County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Harney County, Oregon
Harney's rents are the nation's most affordable
Harney County residents enjoy exceptional rental affordability, with renters spending just 16.8% of income on housing—well below the national average and Oregon's 19.4% state standard. Despite having Oregon's lowest median household income of $48,338, residents pay just $675/month in rent, creating an affordability advantage rarely found nationally.
Oregon's bargain basement for renters
Harney County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.8% ranks it among Oregon's absolute most affordable counties, and its median rent of $675 is the state's lowest. This remote high-desert county offers renters unmatched affordability, though economic opportunities are limited.
Dramatically cheaper than all surrounding counties
Harney's $675 monthly rent undercuts Grant County ($840) by $165 and towers below every other regional county, making it Oregon's rental bargain. The county remains isolated even by eastern Oregon standards, reflecting its sparse population and economy.
Rent or own, costs stay remarkably low
Harney households earning $48,338 pay $675 in rent (16.8% of income) or $812 in owner costs (20.1% of income)—both among the lowest in the state. Notably, homeownership costs slightly more than renting, the opposite of most markets, though both remain highly affordable.
For those seeking extreme affordability
Harney County offers Oregon's most affordable housing if you prioritize low costs above all else—rents at just $675/month beat every other county. However, assess carefully: this remote location offers limited employment, services, and cultural amenities, so affordability must outweigh the isolation trade-offs.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Harney County
Rent Burden
16.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,128
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.2%
of gross income
The median home in Harney County may be a stretch
Median home value is $190,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,522 vs. your max of $1,128.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.