Cost of Living in Pacific County, Washington
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Pacific County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Pacific County ranks #2,030 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 35%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Pacific County, Washington
Pacific County's Housing Affordability
At 18.5%, Pacific County's rent-to-income ratio sits nearly identical to the national median, meaning renters here spend roughly the same share of earnings on housing as Americans nationwide. With a median household income of $62,350—about 17% below the national average of $74,755—Pacific County offers modest housing costs that roughly track with lower regional incomes.
More Affordable Than Most Washington
Pacific County ranks among Washington's most affordable counties, with a rent-to-income ratio of 18.5% that beats the state average of 18.8%. Median rent of $962/month falls $240 below the state median of $1,202, making it a relative bargain in a state where housing costs have surged.
Pacific County vs. Regional Peers
Pacific County's $962 median rent undercuts nearby Pierce County ($1,722) by 44%, though Pierce households earn 55% more annually. Against Skamania County to the south, Pacific sits in the middle: Skamania's rent runs $62 higher, but with a $27,735 income advantage, the math favors Skamania renters.
Where Your Income Goes
Pacific County renters spend 18.5% of income on rent ($962/month), while homeowners dedicate 12.1% to mortgage and owner costs ($843/month). The median home value of $274,000 remains one of the state's lowest, keeping both rental and ownership within reach for working families.
Consider Pacific for Value
If you're weighing relocation, Pacific County offers genuine affordability: your rent dollar stretches further here than in most Washington counties, and home ownership remains achievable without a six-figure income. Compare these costs to higher-income counties like Snohomish or Pierce to see how much your monthly budget could improve.
Cost of Living Advisory: Pacific County
Affordability Verdict
Pacific County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $962/month — about 18.5% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Pacific County is $962/month, while owner costs run $843/month. Owning saves approximately $119/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,480/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $36,129/year. With a median household income of $62,350, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Pacific County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Grays Harbor County where rent averages $1,018/month, Pacific County is approximately 6% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Pacific County
Rent Burden
18.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,455
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.2%
of gross income
The median home in Pacific County may be a stretch
Median home value is $274,000. Estimated monthly cost: $2,187 vs. your max of $1,455.
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
What is the cost of living in Pacific County, Washington?
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Counties with Similar Housing Costs
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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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