Cost of Living in Washington County, Utah
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Washington County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Washington County ranks #1,925 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 39%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Washington County, Utah
Washington County housing strains budgets
Washington County's 23.0% rent-to-income ratio represents a significant affordability challenge, meaning renters spend nearly a quarter of income on housing alone. With a median income of $76,411—just above the national median of $74,755—residents here lack the earning cushion to absorb housing costs that surpass most peers.
Utah's most strained rental market
Washington County ranks as Utah's least affordable county for renters, with a 23.0% rent-to-income ratio running 6.4 percentage points above the state average of 16.6%. At $1,464 monthly, rents are 33% above the state median, creating one of the sharpest affordability crunches in the state.
Rents bite harder here than surroundings
Washington County's $1,464 monthly rent undercuts Wasatch County's $1,905 but surpasses Utah County ($1,441) and Wayne County ($1,018), yet its lower income makes housing less affordable proportionally. At 23.0%, Washington's rent-to-income ratio is the worst among the five counties analyzed here.
Income stretched thin by housing costs
A median Washington County household earning $76,411 annually allocates roughly $1,464 to rent, consuming nearly a quarter of gross income before taxes and other expenses. Homeowners fare somewhat better at 19.9% for owner costs, but renters here shoulder the state's heaviest housing burden relative to income.
Washington County demands careful budgeting
If you're relocating to Washington County on an average income, plan for housing to consume a larger slice of your budget than elsewhere in Utah—23% versus the state average of 16.6%. Consider whether nearby counties like Utah County (17.9%) or Wayne County (17.4%) might offer comparable lifestyles with lower housing strain.
Cost of Living Advisory: Washington County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Washington County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,464/month in gross rent, with 32.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Washington County pay $1,464/month on average, compared to $1,265/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 14%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $58,560/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $54,214/year. With a median household income of $76,411, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 32.0% of renter households in Washington County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Davis County where rent averages $1,516/month, Washington County is approximately 3% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Washington County
Rent Burden
23.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,783
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.9%
of gross income
The median home in Washington County may be a stretch
Median home value is $465,600. Estimated monthly cost: $3,717 vs. your max of $1,783.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Washington County, Utah?
What is the median rent in Washington County?
Is Washington County affordable?
How does Washington County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Washington County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Washington County, Utah? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Washington County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.