Safe Rate Local

Cost of Living in Eugene

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

Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

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

$73,165
$1,505/mo

Median in area: $1,505

$472,844

Median in area: $472,844

$94,569

If you Rent

🔑
$1,639 /mo
Base Rent$1,505
Est. Utilities$134
% of Income26.9%
Pre-tax Residual$4,458

If you Buy

🏠
$3,046 /mo
P&I (6.823%)$2,472
Taxes & Ins$440
Est. Utilities$134
% of Income50.0%
Pre-tax Residual$3,051

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Eugene?

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Eugene. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,639, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $3,046 per month (a difference of $1,407).

How much do utilities cost in Eugene?

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Eugene is approximately $134. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Eugene?

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Eugene without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $65,560 per year.