Cost of Living in Lincoln County, Oregon
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lincoln County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lincoln County, Oregon
Coastal Housing Costs Peak in Lincoln
Lincoln County's rent-to-income ratio of 22.5% significantly exceeds Oregon's 19.4% state average, driven by coastal housing demand and limited supply. Median household income of $61,314 falls well below the national average of $74,755, yet monthly rent of $1,150 approaches what Lane County renters pay—creating sharp affordability pressure.
Above-Average Burden on Below-Average Incomes
Lincoln County's 22.5% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Oregon's most burdened, exceeding the state average of 19.4% by meaningful margins. The combination of lower incomes and higher coastal rents creates one of the state's most challenging housing affordability pictures.
Coastal Premium in Full Effect
Lincoln's median rent of $1,150 rivals Josephine ($1,157) and Klamath ($973), but Lincoln residents earn considerably less, making the same rent consume more of their budgets. Only Lane County renters pay substantially more in absolute dollars, yet Lane incomes are $8,000 higher annually, softening the burden significantly.
Rent Rivals Home Ownership Costs
Renters spend $1,150 monthly while homeowners pay $1,087, with median home values at $387,700—among Oregon's highest for the given income levels. At 22.5% of household income devoted to rent alone, Lincoln residents face the state's tightest affordability margins, with limited financial cushion for emergencies or savings.
Weigh Coastal Living Against Finances
Lincoln County's ocean access and natural beauty command premium housing costs that may strain lower-income households; consider Klamath or Lake counties for comparable quality at lower cost. Those willing to relocate inland can cut housing expenses by 15-30% while maintaining small-town Oregon character.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lincoln County
Rent Burden
22.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,431
per month
Owner Cost Burden
21.3%
of gross income
The median home in Lincoln County may be a stretch
Median home value is $387,700. Estimated monthly cost: $3,095 vs. your max of $1,431.
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.