Cost of Living in Joseph, OR

With a cost of living index of 88, Joseph, OR is a very affordable place to live. Living here is 12% cheaper than the national average and 18% below the Oregon state average of 106. Joseph is a small community of 1,090 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Joseph's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $850 (36% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $314,200 (3% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 6.5x the median household income — a challenging ratio that puts homeownership out of reach for many residents.

The median household income in Joseph is $48,705, which is 35% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 21% 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 Joseph. The area sees an average annual temperature of 47.6°F, with summers averaging 66°F and winters around 30°F. Annual rainfall totals 9.1 inches spread over roughly 94 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.