Cost of Living in Chinle, AZ

With a cost of living index of 52, Chinle, AZ is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 48% cheaper than the national average and 37% below the Arizona state average of 89. Chinle is a small community of 4,395 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Chinle's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $504 (62% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $38,000 (88% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 0.8x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Chinle is $46,458, which is 38% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 13% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Chinle. The area sees an average annual temperature of 49.2°F, with summers averaging 68°F and winters around 31°F. Annual rainfall totals 11.4 inches spread over roughly 76 days.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.