Cost of Living in Chelan County, Washington
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Chelan County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Chelan County ranks #2,381 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 24%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Chelan County, Washington
Chelan County holds its own nationally
Chelan County's 18.1% rent-to-income ratio sits just below Washington's state average and remains competitive with national benchmarks. At $1,182 monthly rent and $78,306 median household income, Chelan residents maintain solid affordability despite living in a scenic mountain region.
Mid-range affordability among Washington counties
Chelan County ranks in the middle of Washington's affordability spectrum with an 18.1% rent-to-income ratio, marginally better than the state's 18.8% average. Its median rent of $1,182 runs just $20 below state average, reflecting a balanced market.
Pricier rents, pricier homes than most peers
Chelan County's $1,182 rent exceeds Asotin ($994) and Adams ($901) but trails Benton ($1,256). However, Chelan's median home value of $454,900 towers over all nearby counties, reflecting mountain real estate premiums.
Homeownership costs nearly match rent burden
Renters allocate 18.1% of income to housing while homeowners spend 18.8%—remarkably close and suggesting balanced market pressures. At $78,306 median household income, Chelan residents face moderate affordability constraints across both rental and ownership sectors.
Chelan appeals to those valuing lifestyle
Chelan County's higher home values and rents reflect its desirable mountain location and recreational amenities. If you're relocating for quality of life and can afford above-average housing costs, Chelan's market warrants comparison against your current region.
Cost of Living Advisory: Chelan County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Chelan County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,182/month in gross rent, with 26.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Chelan County pay $1,182/month on average, compared to $1,224/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 3%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $47,280/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $52,457/year. With a median household income of $78,306, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Chelan County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Douglas County where rent averages $1,234/month, Chelan County is approximately 4% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Chelan County
Rent Burden
18.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,827
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.8%
of gross income
The median home in Chelan County may be a stretch
Median home value is $454,900. Estimated monthly cost: $3,632 vs. your max of $1,827.
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 Chelan County, Washington?
What is the median rent in Chelan County?
Is Chelan County affordable?
How does Chelan County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Chelan County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Chelan County, Washington? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Chelan 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.