Cost of Living in Grays Harbor County, Washington
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Grays Harbor County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Grays Harbor County ranks #2,814 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 10%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Grays Harbor County, Washington
Grays Harbor slightly above national comfort zone
Grays Harbor County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.2% exceeds the national average of roughly 28–30% for renters, though it remains in reasonable territory. With a median household income of $63,539 and $1,018 monthly rent, the county's coastal location carries modest affordability pressure.
Slightly tighter than Washington average
Grays Harbor County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.2% sits just above Washington's state average of 18.8%, making it a marginally less affordable option than many peers. The coastal location and tourism economy influence both housing costs and wage patterns.
Pricier than inland, cheaper than islands
Grays Harbor's $1,018 rent falls between the inland bargains of Ferry ($703) and the island premiums of Island County ($1,631). Its $279,500 median home value reflects coastal demand without the extreme pricing of wealthier western counties.
Similar burden for renters and owners
Renters pay $1,018 monthly while homeowners face $1,061—nearly identical costs that each consume roughly 19% of household income. This tight alignment suggests Grays Harbor offers balanced affordability regardless of housing choice.
Grays Harbor for coastal-living seekers
If Pacific coast living appeals to you and you can accept slightly higher housing costs, Grays Harbor County offers more accessibility than island or wealthy waterfront counties. Your income needs to stretch a bit further here, but ocean proximity may justify the modest premium.
Cost of Living Advisory: Grays Harbor County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Grays Harbor County is affordable. The median rent is $1,018/month against a median household income of $63,539, putting rent at 19.2% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Grays Harbor County pay $1,018/month on average, compared to $1,061/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 4%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $40,720/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $45,471/year. With a median household income of $63,539, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Grays Harbor County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Grays Harbor County sits 6% more expensive than Pacific County ($962/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Grays Harbor County
Rent Burden
19.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,483
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.0%
of gross income
The median home in Grays Harbor County may be a stretch
Median home value is $279,500. Estimated monthly cost: $2,231 vs. your max of $1,483.
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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