Cost of Living in Franklin County, Washington
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Franklin County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Franklin County ranks #2,905 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 8%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Franklin County, Washington
Franklin strikes national-level balance
Franklin County renters dedicate 17.0% of income to housing—comfortably below the national average of roughly 28–30% for typical renters. With a median household income of $82,755, residents earn above the national median of $74,755, providing strong financial footing for housing decisions.
One of Washington's better affordability plays
Franklin County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.0% ranks well below Washington's state average of 18.8%, making it one of the state's more balanced markets. The combination of solid incomes and moderate rents creates a favorable environment for both renters and buyers.
Undercuts nearby counties on rent
Franklin County's $1,171 rent is notably lower than Douglas ($1,234) and Grant ($1,059), positioning it as the cheapest rental option among central Washington peers. Its median home value of $345,700 sits in the middle of the regional range, offering moderate entry costs for homebuyers.
Homeownership carries slightly higher costs
Renters pay $1,171 monthly, while homeowners face $1,417—a $246 gap that reflects higher property-related expenses beyond mortgage principal. Both groups keep housing costs under 20% of household income, maintaining healthy financial flexibility.
Franklin offers solid middle ground
If you seek balance between affordability and regional opportunity, Franklin County delivers reasonable rents and moderate home values. Match your household income against the $82,755 median to assess whether this central Washington location fits your relocation goals.
Cost of Living Advisory: Franklin County
Affordability Verdict
Franklin County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,171/month — about 17.0% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,171/month rent versus $1,417/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $246/month cheaper — a 17% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $46,840/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $60,729/year. With a median household income of $82,755, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Franklin County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Franklin County sits 5% more expensive than Klickitat County ($1,119/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Franklin County
Rent Burden
17.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,931
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.5%
of gross income
The median home in Franklin County may be a stretch
Median home value is $345,700. Estimated monthly cost: $2,760 vs. your max of $1,931.
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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