Cost of Living in Wallowa County, Oregon
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Wallowa County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Wallowa County ranks #327 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 10%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Wallowa County, Oregon
Wallowa combines low rent and strong ratios
Wallowa County's 15.7% rent-to-income ratio sits well below the national baseline and Oregon's 19.4% state average, delivering exceptional affordability. The median household income of $65,559 falls below the national median of $74,755, yet housing costs remain among Oregon's most restrained.
Wallowa ranks Oregon's most affordable
At 15.7%, Wallowa County ties with Morrow for Oregon's best rent-to-income ratio, offering genuine affordability in the state's rural northeast. The $858 median rent represents Oregon's lowest, creating unmatched rental value despite modest income levels.
Wallowa's rent sets eastern standard
Wallowa's $858 rent beats all eastern Oregon comparisons—Morrow ($910), Umatilla ($962), Union ($982)—while matching the 15.7% rent-to-income excellence of Morrow County. The county delivers unrivaled rental affordability paired with competitive ownership costs.
Wallowa's exceptional rental value
Wallowa renters spend just $858 monthly—lowest in the region—while homeowners budget $834, with median home value of $371,900 reflecting mountain property appeal. At 15.7% of income dedicated to rent, Wallowa residents enjoy maximum financial flexibility.
Wallowa offers unmatched rural value
Wallowa County delivers Oregon's most compelling affordability package: $858 rent, 15.7% rent-to-income ratio, and mountain scenery without Portland-area prices. If your relocation prioritizes housing affordability alongside access to outdoor recreation and small-town living, Wallowa stands unmatched among Oregon options.
Cost of Living Advisory: Wallowa County
Affordability Verdict
Wallowa County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $858/month representing approximately 15.7% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 26.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Wallowa County pay $858/month on average, compared to $834/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 3%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,320/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $35,743/year. With a median household income of $65,559, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Wallowa County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Wallowa County sits 6% less expensive than Morrow County ($910/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Wallowa County
Rent Burden
15.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,530
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.3%
of gross income
The median home in Wallowa County may be a stretch
Median home value is $371,900. Estimated monthly cost: $2,969 vs. your max of $1,530.
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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