Average Rent in Mount Vernon, WA↓ Rents falling 3.0% YoY
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 130,407
Market Overview
Mount Vernon, WA has rental prices ranging from $1,162/month to $2,578/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,275/month — 9% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $85,474/year, spending $1,275/month on a 1-bedroom represents 18% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Mount Vernon Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,668/month, Mount Vernon ranks #8 most expensive of the 36 cities tracked in Washington — pricier than 93% of all US cities in our data.
The Mount Vernon Rental Market
The Mount Vernon, WA area has a population of about 130,407 and 29% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Mount Vernon, WA have fallen by $52/month (3.0%) over the past year, from $1,720 to $1,668. This slight decline is consistent with broader market corrections seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Mount Vernon, WA without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $51,000. The local median household income of $85,474 exceeds that threshold by $34,474, making Mount Vernon relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Rent vs. Buy
The median home value in Mount Vernon, WA is $582,462, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 29.1. With a break-even horizon of approximately 29 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.
Neighborhoods
Home values — and by extension rent levels — vary significantly across Mount Vernon's neighborhoods. Among the highest-value areas are West Hill ($473,111 median home value). Renters on a tighter budget may find better value in less central neighborhoods or in adjacent metros with lower overall rent levels.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2027Is Mount Vernon, WA Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Rent or Buy in Mount Vernon?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Mount Vernon data
Buying breaks even after 4 years — worth it if you stay 4+ years.
Mortgage Calculator
Estimate monthly payment for $582,462 home at 7% rate
Living in Mount Vernon
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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⚖️Rent vs Buy in Mount VernonIs it cheaper to rent or buy here?
💵Rent Affordability in Mount VernonSalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in WASee how Mount Vernon ranks statewide
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