Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Oregon
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jefferson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Jefferson County ranks #1,786 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 43%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Oregon
Jefferson County's rare affordability advantage
Jefferson County renters spend just 15.7% of their income on housing, one of Oregon's best rates and well below the national average. With median household income of $73,051 and $957 monthly rent, residents enjoy strong affordability even while earning slightly below the national median.
Oregon's hidden affordability gem
Jefferson County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.7% ranks it among Oregon's most affordable counties, beating the state average of 19.4% by more than 3 percentage points. Median rent of $957 runs $180 below the state average, making it a standout bargain in Oregon's housing landscape.
Better value than all nearby mountain counties
Jefferson's $957 rent undercuts Deschutes ($1,674), Hood River ($1,381), and Jackson ($1,310), while remaining cheaper than Gilliam ($1,084). For a county adjacent to Oregon's recreation heartland, Jefferson delivers exceptional rental affordability relative to its peers.
Renting far cheaper than owning here
Jefferson County households earning $73,051 annually spend $957 on rent (15.7% of income) but $1,222 on owner costs (20.0% of income). Renting holds a clear financial advantage, with homeownership costing significantly more despite the county's moderate home values of $339,200.
Mountain proximity with affordability advantage
Jefferson County offers a smart option for those seeking central Oregon access at Deschutes-light prices—rents run $717/month cheaper while you remain close to skiing and outdoor recreation. Compare this $957 rent to neighboring mountain counties if you value affordability alongside proximity to amenities.
Cost of Living Advisory: Jefferson County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Jefferson County is affordable. The median rent is $957/month against a median household income of $73,051, putting rent at 15.7% of income.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Jefferson County is $957/month, while owner costs run $1,222/month. Renting saves approximately $265/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,280/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $52,371/year. With a median household income of $73,051, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Jefferson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Jefferson County sits 11% more expensive than Lake County ($861/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jefferson County
Rent Burden
15.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,705
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.1%
of gross income
The median home in Jefferson County may be a stretch
Median home value is $339,200. Estimated monthly cost: $2,708 vs. your max of $1,705.
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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