Affordable

What Salary Do You Need to Live in Underwood?

To afford a 2-bedroom in Underwood, you need to earn at least $32,960/year based on estimated fair market rent data. The median household income here is $72,917, which means the typical resident is $39,957 above the threshold.

Census ACS Data Pop. 732

Salary Required by Bedroom Size

Bedroom	Monthly Rent	Monthly Income	Annual Salary	vs. Median
Studio	$577	$1,923	$23,080	$-49,837
1 Bedroom	$684	$2,280	$27,360	$-45,557
2 Bedroom BENCHMARK	$824	$2,747	$32,960	$-39,957
3 Bedroom	$1,005	$3,350	$40,200	$-32,717
4 Bedroom	$1,236	$4,120	$49,440	$-23,477

Affordability Breakdown

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

Required Salary Median Income

Income vs. Rent Snapshot

Median Income

$72,917

Annual household

2BR Required Salary

$32,960

Under 30% rule

Income Gap

+$39,957

Surplus

Verdict

Affordable

Ratio: 13.6%

The 30% Rule Calculator

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

Your Annual Salary

Pre-filled with Underwood's median household income

Max monthly rent you can afford$1,823

Studio

$577/mo

1 BR

$684/mo

2 BR

$824/mo

3 BR

$1,005/mo

4 BR

$1,236/mo

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

Salary Comparison by Bedroom

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

Affordable Above Median Median Income

What This Means If You're Moving to Underwood

Underwood, North Dakota stands out as one of the more financially accessible housing markets in the state. The median household income of $72,917 significantly exceeds the $32,960 needed to comfortably afford a 2-bedroom at 30% of gross income — leaving a $39,957 annual surplus for savings, debt repayment, or lifestyle spending.

For remote workers or relocators evaluating Underwood, a studio at $577/month offers an even more aggressive savings rate. Even a 3-bedroom at $1,005/month remains accessible for dual-income households earning above $40,200.

To live comfortably with room for non-housing expenses, a break-even salary of approximately $49,440 would position you well — though many residents in Underwood 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 Underwood, North Dakota.

With a total population of 732, the city supports an active civilian workforce of 351 people. A strong employment base often indicates a stable economy, which is crucial when committing to a lease requiring a $32,960 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

351

Active civilian employees in Underwood

Frequently Asked Questions About Renting in Underwood

What salary do I need to live in Underwood, North Dakota?

To afford a 2-bedroom in Underwood under the 30% rule, you need an annual salary of at least $32,960. The median household income in Underwood is $72,917.

Can I afford a 2-bedroom in Underwood on $72,917?

The affordability verdict for Underwood is "Affordable". The rent-to-income ratio is 13.6%, meaning median earners have a $39,957 surplus.

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

The median gross rent in Underwood is $684/month. With a median household income of $72,917, residents spend approximately 13.6% of their income on rent.

What salary do I need for a studio in Underwood?

A studio in Underwood rents for approximately $577/month. Under the 30% rule, you need an annual salary of $23,080 to afford this.

Is Underwood considered an affordable place to live?

Based on the surplus of $39,957 and an affordability verdict of "Affordable", Underwood is considered a affordable rental market when comparing the required 2-bedroom salary of $32,960 to the local median household income.

How Underwood Compares

Other cities in North Dakota with salary requirements