Cost of Living in Lincoln County, Washington
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lincoln County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Lincoln County ranks #514 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 16%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lincoln County, Washington
Lincoln County's affordability gem
Lincoln County boasts a 14.7% rent-to-income ratio—the lowest of any county analyzed and well below both the national average and Washington state average. At just $872 monthly rent on a $71,227 income, Lincoln offers genuine affordability rarely found in modern America.
Washington's most affordable rental market
Lincoln County's 14.7% rent-to-income ratio is the state's best, significantly undercutting Washington's 18.8% average. The median rent of $872 is the lowest in this region and 27% below the state average, making Lincoln a rare affordability oasis.
Rural leader in housing value
Lincoln's $872 rent trails only Okanogan County ($868) but with a superior income-to-cost ratio thanks to slightly higher earnings. Among all analyzed counties, Lincoln delivers the most balanced housing affordability relative to income.
Lowest housing burden statewide
Renters spend just 14.7% of $71,227 income on housing—a remarkably low burden—while homeowners dedicate 13.0% to mortgage costs of $773. The median home value of $272,300 is the state's lowest, enabling broad-based homeownership access.
Lincoln County's affordability advantage
Lincoln County is Washington's hidden affordability champion, with rents 57% below King County and the state's most balanced housing-to-income ratios. If remote work or relocation for cost-of-living relief is your goal, Lincoln's wheat-belt economy and genuine affordability make it a compelling choice.
Cost of Living Advisory: Lincoln County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Lincoln County is affordable. The median rent is $872/month against a median household income of $71,227, putting rent at 14.7% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Lincoln County pay $872/month on average, compared to $773/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 11%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,880/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $33,129/year. With a median household income of $71,227, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 21.0% of renter households in Lincoln County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Columbia County where rent averages $944/month, Lincoln County is approximately 8% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lincoln County
Rent Burden
14.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,662
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.0%
of gross income
The median home in Lincoln County may be a stretch
Median home value is $272,300. Estimated monthly cost: $2,174 vs. your max of $1,662.
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 Lincoln County, Washington?
What is the median rent in Lincoln County?
Is Lincoln County affordable?
How does Lincoln County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Lincoln County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Lincoln County, Washington? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Lincoln 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.