Cost of Living in Jefferson, OR

With a cost of living index of 101, Jefferson, OR is right around the national average in cost. Living here is 1% more expensive than the national average and 6% below the Oregon state average of 106. Jefferson is a small community of 3,316 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Jefferson's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,232 (7% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $333,000 (9% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3.7x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Jefferson is $90,391, which is 20% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 16% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Jefferson. The area sees an average annual temperature of 54.1°F, with summers averaging 67°F and winters around 42°F. Annual rainfall totals 40.1 inches spread over roughly 148 days.

Everyday prices in the Salem, OR (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area tend to run above the national average. Out of 6 common grocery and utility items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 5 are priced higher than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

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.