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Cost of Living in Clayton County

Is it better to rent or buy in Clayton County? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

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Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$67,836
$787/mo

Median in area: $787

$169,284

Median in area: $169,284

$33,857

If you Rent

🔑
$1,086 /mo
Base Rent$787
Est. Utilities$299
% of Income19.2%
Pre-tax Residual$4,567

If you Buy

🏠
$1,461 /mo
P&I (7.171%)$917
Taxes & Ins$245
Est. Utilities$299
% of Income25.8%
Pre-tax Residual$4,192

Compare Nearby Areas

See how Clayton County stacks up against neighboring areas.

countyDubuque County, IA
$1,008/mo
countyAllamakee County, IA
$790/mo
countyDelaware County, IA
$711/mo
countyGrant County, WI
$803/mo
countyFayette County, IA
$803/mo

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Clayton County?›

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Clayton County. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,086, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $1,461 per month (a difference of $375).

How much do utilities cost in Clayton County?›

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Clayton County is approximately $299. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Clayton County?›

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Clayton County without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $43,440 per year.