Cost of Living in Stevens County, Washington
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Stevens County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Stevens County ranks #1,090 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 35%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Stevens County, Washington
Stevens County: Affordable by National Standards
Stevens County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.4% sits comfortably below the national benchmark, meaning renters here spend significantly less of their earnings on housing than typical Americans. With a median household income of $67,405 and median rent of $864/month, Stevens County offers relief compared to the national median income of $74,755.
Most Affordable in Washington
Stevens County ranks among Washington's most affordable counties, with a rent-to-income ratio of 15.4% well below the state average of 18.8%. At $864/month, the median rent runs $338 cheaper than the state average of $1,202, a significant advantage for budget-conscious renters.
Beats Rural and Urban Peers
Stevens County rents are dramatically lower than neighboring Spokane-area markets and substantially undercut other eastern Washington counties like Yakima ($1,068/month) and Walla Walla ($1,113/month). For renters, Stevens County offers the most aggressive pricing in its region.
Housing Costs at a Glance
Renters in Stevens County allocate 15.4% of their income to housing, while homeowners spend roughly 16.1% on mortgage costs (based on median owner costs of $904/month). The county's $308,000 median home value also undercuts most regional competitors, making both rental and ownership accessible.
Consider Stevens County
If affordability is your priority, Stevens County delivers the lowest housing burden in Washington state without sacrificing community amenities. Compare these numbers against your current market—chances are, your housing dollar stretches further here.
Cost of Living Advisory: Stevens County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Stevens County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $864/month in gross rent, with 27.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Stevens County is $864/month, while owner costs run $904/month. Renting saves approximately $40/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,560/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $38,743/year. With a median household income of $67,405, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Stevens County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Pend Oreille County where rent averages $786/month, Stevens County is approximately 10% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Stevens County
Rent Burden
15.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,573
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.1%
of gross income
The median home in Stevens County may be a stretch
Median home value is $308,000. Estimated monthly cost: $2,459 vs. your max of $1,573.
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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