Cost of Living in Wahkiakum County, Washington
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Wahkiakum County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Wahkiakum County ranks #92 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 3%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Wahkiakum County, Washington
Wahkiakum County: Highest Rent Burden
Wahkiakum County carries the most severe affordability challenge among these seven counties, with a rent-to-income ratio of 22.8%—far exceeding the national average. The median household income of $57,091 struggles against median rent of $1,086/month, a structural mismatch.
Worst Affordability in Washington
Wahkiakum County's rent-to-income ratio of 22.8% represents the highest burden statewide, significantly worse than Washington's 18.8% average. This rural coastal county combines low incomes with rents approaching state medians—a squeeze felt acutely by renters.
Rent Disconnect From Income
Wahkiakum County renters pay $1,086/month—nearly double Stevens County ($864/month)—while earning less than most comparables. The county's geographic isolation and limited economic diversification drive this rent-income mismatch.
Stretched Renters, Affordable Ownership
Renters allocate 22.8% of income to housing, making Wahkiakum one of Washington's toughest markets for tenants. Homeowners fare better at 14.4% of income ($682/month), with median home values of $344,500 offering surprising equity access.
Evaluate Before Moving Here
Wahkiakum's affordability pressures hit renters hardest—if you're considering relocation, weigh whether Wahkiakum's natural amenities offset its limited income opportunities and rental costs. For homeowners with capital, the story improves considerably.
Cost of Living Advisory: Wahkiakum County
Affordability Verdict
Wahkiakum County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,086/month representing approximately 22.8% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 40.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Wahkiakum County pay $1,086/month on average, compared to $682/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 37%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $43,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $29,229/year. With a median household income of $57,091, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 40.0% of renter households in Wahkiakum County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Skamania County where rent averages $1,024/month, Wahkiakum County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Wahkiakum County
Rent Burden
22.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,332
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.3%
of gross income
The median home in Wahkiakum County may be a stretch
Median home value is $344,500. Estimated monthly cost: $2,750 vs. your max of $1,332.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
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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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