Cost of Living in Mason County, Washington
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Mason County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Mason County ranks #2,545 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 19%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Mason County, Washington
Mason County balances affordability
At 18.4%, Mason County's rent-to-income ratio sits below both the national average and Washington's state average of 18.8%, marking it as reasonably affordable. Renters pay $1,205 monthly—close to the state median—against a $78,359 income, the highest in this rural tier.
Below-state-average affordability pressure
Mason County's 18.4% rent-to-income ratio edges below Washington's 18.8% average, positioning it among the state's more balanced housing markets. The median rent of $1,205 is notably close to the state average of $1,202, reflecting mainstream Puget Sound regional pricing.
Thurston region affordability anchor
Mason's $1,205 rent sits between Kitsap County's costlier rates and more rural neighbors to the south and east. The county offers Puget Sound access with marginally lower costs than Seattle-area counties while maintaining reasonable income levels for the region.
Modest housing burden balanced
Renters dedicate 18.4% of the $78,359 median income to housing, while homeowners spend 20.4% on mortgage costs of $1,330. The median home value of $377,400 is moderate for western Washington, supporting both rental and ownership pathways.
Mason: Suburban calm, coastal access
Mason County offers a balanced lifestyle with Puget Sound proximity, reasonable rents, and slightly higher incomes than rural peers. If you're seeking small-town character with urban access without King County's affordability crunch, Mason provides an underrated relocation opportunity.
Cost of Living Advisory: Mason County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Mason County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,205/month in gross rent, with 27.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Mason County pay $1,205/month on average, compared to $1,330/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 9%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $48,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $57,000/year. With a median household income of $78,359, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Mason County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Mason County sits 4% less expensive than Benton County ($1,256/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Mason County
Rent Burden
18.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,828
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.4%
of gross income
The median home in Mason County may be a stretch
Median home value is $377,400. Estimated monthly cost: $3,013 vs. your max of $1,828.
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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