Cost of Living in San Juan County, Utah
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How San Juan County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
San Juan County ranks #753 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 24%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in San Juan County, Utah
San Juan struggles with affordability gap
San Juan County's median household income of $54,890 falls 27% below the national average of $74,755, creating significant affordability challenges despite moderate rents. The rent-to-income ratio of 17.6% reflects this income disadvantage—renters here spend a larger share of smaller paychecks on housing.
Low income, high affordability pressure
San Juan County ranks among Utah's least affordable by income level, with a median household income well below the state average and a rent-to-income ratio of 17.6% above Utah's 16.6% state benchmark. The combination of lower wages and modest rent creates a tight squeeze for local families.
Similar challenges to other rural counties
San Juan County's $805 rent is comparable to Sevier County ($878) and Uintah County ($914), but its lower median income of $54,890 makes proportional costs heavier than neighboring areas. The county's 17.6% rent-to-income ratio exceeds most peers despite moderate absolute rental prices.
Rent dominates San Juan budgets
At $805 monthly for renters and $568 for homeowners, housing costs consume 17.6% to 12.4% of a median $54,890 household income. For the typical renting family earning under $55,000 annually, that $805 rent represents a meaningful portion of their budget.
San Juan offers low costs, limited income
If you're relocating to San Juan, factor in the lower median income alongside modest housing costs—the county suits remote workers or those with portable income streams. The affordable rent and home values ($189,900 median) appeal to budget-conscious movers, though local job markets are limited.
Cost of Living Advisory: San Juan County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in San Juan County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $805/month in gross rent, with 23.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $805/month rent versus $568/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $237/month cheaper — a 29% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $24,343/year. With a median household income of $54,890, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in San Juan County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Rich County where rent averages $743/month, San Juan County is approximately 8% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in San Juan County
Rent Burden
17.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,281
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.4%
of gross income
The median home in San Juan County may be a stretch
Median home value is $189,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,516 vs. your max of $1,281.
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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