Cost of Living in Malheur County, Oregon
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Malheur County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Malheur County, Oregon
Malheur: Cheapest Housing, Lowest Incomes
Malheur County delivers Oregon's lowest median rent at just $819 monthly, with a rent-to-income ratio of 19.7%—matching Oregon's state average despite the nation's lowest household income at $49,902. This combination reflects a rural agricultural economy where affordable housing pairs with limited earning potential.
Balanced Affordability on Tight Incomes
Malheur's 19.7% rent-to-income ratio equals Oregon's state average of 19.4%, placing it squarely in the middle affordability-wise despite the state's lowest median household income. The county's low absolute rents offset income constraints, preserving reasonable housing cost burdens.
Lowest Absolute Rents in Comparison
Malheur's median rent of $819 undercuts all regional peers—even Lake County ($861)—making it the state's cheapest rental market in this analysis. However, household incomes of $49,902 run $11,320 below Lake County, meaning renters here face genuine earning limitations despite favorable rent levels.
Affordable Rent, Limited Incomes
Monthly rent averages just $819 while homeownership runs $860, with median homes valued at $221,300—the state's most affordable. Despite these low costs, household income of $49,902 limits overall financial flexibility, meaning renters spend proportionally the same as better-earning counties despite lower absolute housing expenses.
Affordability Without Employment Anchors
Malheur offers the state's lowest housing costs, ideal for retirees or remote workers unconcerned with local employment; traditional job-seekers may struggle with limited regional opportunities. Those relocating here should prioritize income stability independent of local markets to fully capitalize on exceptional housing affordability.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Malheur County
Rent Burden
19.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,164
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.7%
of gross income
The median home in Malheur County may be a stretch
Median home value is $221,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,767 vs. your max of $1,164.
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.