Cost of Living in Josephine County, Oregon
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Josephine County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Josephine County, Oregon
Josephine's Rent Burden Exceeds National Norms
Josephine County renters spend 23.5% of their income on rent, outpacing the nation's typical burden and signaling tighter affordability than most American counties. The median household income here is $59,097—about $15,650 below the national average of $74,755—making housing costs feel steeper relative to earnings.
Above Average Strain in Oregon
At 23.5%, Josephine's rent-to-income ratio ranks above Oregon's state average of 19.4%, placing it among the state's more cost-burdened counties. This gap suggests renters here face measurably tighter housing markets than many of their neighbors across Oregon.
More Expensive Than Southern Peers
Josephine's median rent of $1,157 exceeds neighboring Klamath County ($973) and Lake County ($861), reflecting higher coastal housing demand. Despite lower incomes than Lane County residents, Josephine renters pay nearly as much in monthly rent, creating a sharper affordability squeeze.
Rent vs. Ownership: Both Stretch Budgets
Renters pay a median $1,157 monthly while homeowners carry $1,135 in monthly costs, with the median home valued at $383,100. Together, these figures mean over 23% of median household income flows to rent alone—well above the 30% affordability threshold financial advisors recommend.
Weighing Josephine Against Alternatives
If affordability is your priority, Lake County and Klamath County offer notably lower rents and rent-to-income ratios in the same region. For renters comfortable with higher costs, Josephine's coastal lifestyle and home values come at a premium compared to interior Oregon counties with similar incomes.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Josephine County
Rent Burden
23.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,379
per month
Owner Cost Burden
23.0%
of gross income
The median home in Josephine County may be a stretch
Median home value is $383,100. Estimated monthly cost: $3,058 vs. your max of $1,379.
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.