Affordable

What Salary Do You Need to Live in Custer?

To afford a 2-bedroom in Custer, you need to earn at least $27,120/year based on estimated fair market rent data. The median household income here is $63,750, which means the typical resident is $36,630 above the threshold.

Census ACS Data Pop. 146

Salary Required by Bedroom Size

Bedroom	Monthly Rent	Monthly Income	Annual Salary	vs. Median
Studio	$475	$1,583	$19,000	$-44,750
1 Bedroom	$563	$1,877	$22,520	$-41,230
2 Bedroom BENCHMARK	$678	$2,260	$27,120	$-36,630
3 Bedroom	$827	$2,757	$33,080	$-30,670
4 Bedroom	$1,017	$3,390	$40,680	$-23,070

Affordability Breakdown

Where the required salary line crosses above Custer's median income — housing becomes unaffordable for the typical resident.

Required Salary Median Income

Income vs. Rent Snapshot

Median Income

$63,750

Annual household

2BR Required Salary

$27,120

Under 30% rule

Income Gap

+$36,630

Surplus

Verdict

Affordable

Ratio: 12.8%

The 30% Rule Calculator

Enter your annual salary to see what you can afford in Custer

Your Annual Salary

Pre-filled with Custer's median household income

Max monthly rent you can afford$1,594

Studio

$475/mo

1 BR

$563/mo

2 BR

$678/mo

3 BR

$827/mo

4 BR

$1,017/mo

Your salary is $0 above the median income in Custer.

Salary Comparison by Bedroom

Bars left of the marker line are affordable for Custer's median earner. Bars to the right require above-median income.

Affordable Above Median Median Income

What This Means If You're Moving to Custer

Custer, Montana stands out as one of the more financially accessible housing markets in the state. The median household income of $63,750 significantly exceeds the $27,120 needed to comfortably afford a 2-bedroom at 30% of gross income — leaving a $36,630 annual surplus for savings, debt repayment, or lifestyle spending.

For remote workers or relocators evaluating Custer, a studio at $475/month offers an even more aggressive savings rate. Even a 3-bedroom at $827/month remains accessible for dual-income households earning above $33,080.

To live comfortably with room for non-housing expenses, a break-even salary of approximately $40,680 would position you well — though many residents in Custer manage on less given the favorable rent-to-income dynamics.

Economic Outlook

Local Job Market & Housing Dynamics

Affording rent isn't just about housing prices—it's heavily dependent on local employment opportunities and the strength of the job market in Custer, Montana.

With a total population of 146, the city supports an active civilian workforce of 77 people. A strong employment base often indicates a stable economy, which is crucial when committing to a lease requiring a $27,120 annual salary. The ratio of employed residents to the total population provides insight into the local economic health and competition for both jobs and housing.

Employed Workforce

Active civilian employees in Custer

Frequently Asked Questions About Renting in Custer

What salary do I need to live in Custer, Montana?

To afford a 2-bedroom in Custer under the 30% rule, you need an annual salary of at least $27,120. The median household income in Custer is $63,750.

Can I afford a 2-bedroom in Custer on $63,750?

The affordability verdict for Custer is "Affordable". The rent-to-income ratio is 12.8%, meaning median earners have a $36,630 surplus.

What is the average rent in Custer compared to median income?

The median gross rent in Custer is $563/month. With a median household income of $63,750, residents spend approximately 12.8% of their income on rent.

What salary do I need for a studio in Custer?

A studio in Custer rents for approximately $475/month. Under the 30% rule, you need an annual salary of $19,000 to afford this.

Is Custer considered an affordable place to live?

Based on the surplus of $36,630 and an affordability verdict of "Affordable", Custer is considered a affordable rental market when comparing the required 2-bedroom salary of $27,120 to the local median household income.

How Custer Compares

Other cities in Montana with salary requirements