Cost of Living in Douglas County, Washington
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Douglas County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Douglas County ranks #2,084 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 34%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Douglas County, Washington
Douglas rents remain below national mark
Douglas County renters spend 18.4% of their income on housing, slightly better than the national average of roughly 28–30% for typical renters. With a median household income of $80,374, residents earn above the national median of $74,755, creating relative breathing room in the rental market.
Middle of the pack in Washington
Douglas County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.4% ranks favorably compared to Washington's state average of 18.8%, positioning it as a more affordable county than many peers. This modest advantage reflects both reasonable wage levels and housing costs aligned with statewide norms.
Comparable to central Washington peers
Douglas County's $1,234 monthly rent sits between Grant County ($1,059) to the south and Island County ($1,631) to the west, reflecting its mid-state location. Home values at $402,900 align with regional patterns, making it neither a bargain nor a premium market.
Housing takes similar slices both ways
Renters pay $1,234 monthly while homeowners face $1,208 in costs—nearly identical burdens that consume about 18% of household income either way. This balance suggests Douglas County offers relatively stable affordability regardless of tenure choice.
Consider Douglas for stable affordability
If you're relocating to Washington and want predictable housing costs without dramatic tradeoffs, Douglas County delivers solid income-to-housing ratios and mid-range home values. Compare your household income against the $80,374 median to gauge whether the market aligns with your budget.
Cost of Living Advisory: Douglas County
Affordability Verdict
Douglas County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,234/month — about 18.4% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,234/month rent versus $1,208/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $26/month cheaper — a 2% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $49,360/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $51,771/year. With a median household income of $80,374, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Douglas County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Washington, Douglas County is more affordable than Chelan County by roughly 4% ($1,234/mo vs $1,182/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Douglas County
Rent Burden
18.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,875
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.0%
of gross income
The median home in Douglas County may be a stretch
Median home value is $402,900. Estimated monthly cost: $3,216 vs. your max of $1,875.
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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