Cost of Living in Athena, OR

With a cost of living index of 79, Athena, OR is a very affordable place to live. Living here is 21% cheaper than the national average and 27% below the Oregon state average of 106. Athena is a small community of 1,206 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Athena's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $868 (34% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $196,700 (35% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.8x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Athena is $70,729, which is 6% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 15% 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 Athena. The area sees an average annual temperature of 52.1°F, with summers averaging 70°F and winters around 36°F. Annual rainfall totals 12.8 inches spread over roughly 100 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.