Cost of Living in Island County, Washington
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Island County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Island County ranks #1,535 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 49%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Island County, Washington
Island County: premium for Puget Sound location
Island County renters spend 22.1% of income on housing, significantly higher than the national average of roughly 28–30% for renters but concentrated in smaller geographic area. With a median household income of $88,358 and $1,631 monthly rent, the county's island geography and Seattle proximity command substantial housing premiums.
Washington's most expensive rental market
Island County's rent-to-income ratio of 22.1% ranks among the least affordable in Washington, exceeding the state average of 18.8% by 3.3 percentage points. This island location near Seattle drives both strong incomes and premium housing costs.
Steepest rents in the examined region
Island County's $1,631 monthly rent dramatically exceeds all peer counties, including nearby Jefferson ($1,291), and its $535,300 median home value is the highest examined. Island geography and proximity to Puget Sound economic centers create scarcity-driven pricing.
Ownership and renting carry similar weight
Renters pay $1,631 monthly while homeowners face $1,685—remarkably aligned burdens that each consume 22% of household income. This suggests Island County's premium applies equally to both housing tenures, with limited escape for cost-conscious residents.
Island County demands strong household income
If island living and Puget Sound access are non-negotiable, Island County requires household income well above the $88,358 median to maintain affordability. Strong employment in tech, healthcare, and government sectors supports these premium prices; ensure your relocation job offer reflects the higher cost structure.
Cost of Living Advisory: Island County
Affordability Verdict
Island County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,631/month representing approximately 22.2% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 31.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Island County pay $1,631/month on average, compared to $1,685/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 $65,240/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $72,214/year. With a median household income of $88,358, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Island County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Washington, Island County is less affordable than Pierce County by roughly 5% ($1,631/mo vs $1,722/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Island County
Rent Burden
22.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,062
per month
Owner Cost Burden
22.9%
of gross income
The median home in Island County may be a stretch
Median home value is $535,300. Estimated monthly cost: $4,273 vs. your max of $2,062.
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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