F
44%
Overall NAT. AVG.
4%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
128%
Housing NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.
The cost of living index is based on a national average of 100. For example, if the cost of living score is 90, then the estimated cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. If the score is 110, then the estimated cost of living is 10% higher than average. The overall index is calculated using weighted estimates across major everyday expense categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%). All values are AI-assisted city-level estimates designed for directional comparisons.
Index Damascus Oregon National
Cost of living144111100
Groceries104104100
Health care108105100
Housing228124100
Transportation108106100
Utilities109106100
Lifestyle & Entertainment106107100
Household Items104104100
Education & Childcare115109100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Damascus, OR

Knowing the cost of living in Damascus allows individuals to create a realistic budget. This helps them understand how their income will cover expenses and whether they need to make financial adjustments. The cost of living in any region can fluctuate due to various factors. To assess the cost of living consistently across different areas, a national average of 100 serves as the basis for the cost of living index. The cost of living in Damascus stands at 144, marking it 44% higher than the national average.

If you prioritize affordability when seeking a new place to live, Damascus may not be your ideal choice, as it ranks among the most expensive locations in the entire United States. A very small amount of areas exhibit a cost of living at least 20% higher than the national average, and unfortunately, Damascus falls into this category, which may not align with your preferences for a budget-friendly living environment.

Housing costs are a very significant part of the Damascus cost of living index and generally encompass a large percentage of take-home income. Unfortunately, in this area, the housing costs for both homes and rentals were 128.5% more than the average city. This includes things like home and rent prices, mortgage rates and insurance.

Is Damascus Affordable?

Is Damascus affordable? This is a pivotal question, especially when mulling over a move, as affordability carries substantial weight in your decision-making process. Factors such as the cost of living index (discussed earlier), housing expenses and income levels all contribute to a location's affordability. For instance, in Damascus, the median home price is 158.6% higher than the national average and monthly rent prices are 58.2% higher than the typical rates. Additionally, the median income levels play a role in affordability, with Damascus boasting a median household income of $147,243, 81% higher than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Damascus?

Healthcare: Healthcare costs and insurance premiums can undergo substantial fluctuations based on the city or state of residence. Elements such as the availability of healthcare facilities, out-of-pocket costs for medical consultations, dental expenses, prescription medication charges and specialized medical care fees all contribute to variations in the cost of living. In Damascus, healthcare costs are 7.9% higher than the national average.

Transportation: When public transportation options are limited or non-existent, residents frequently resort to vehicle ownership, which can significantly contribute to the overall cost of living. Monthly financial obligations encompass fuel, insurance, regular maintenance and potentially lease or financing expenses. In Damascus, the transportation index is 8.1% higher than the national average.

Utilities: Much like any other costs, utility expenses can exhibit considerable variations, influenced by factors such as climate, available energy sources, geographic location and state regulations. The costs associated with electricity, water, heating, and waste disposal can vary significantly depending on the city or state in question. In Damascus, the utilities index stands at 9.4% higher than the national average.

Where is the Data From?

The Damascus cost of living data above is designed around a U.S. average baseline of 100, allowing for easy comparisons of relative living costs. Housing incorporates U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all other figures are AI-assisted estimates that account for regional price trends, climate, transportation dynamics, and common everyday expenses. These values are best used as directional city-to-city comparisons.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Damascus is 29% higher than the Oregon average
  • The cost of living in Damascus is 44% higher than the national average
  • Damascus housing is 128% higher than the national average
  • Oregon general sales tax is 100% lower than the national average
  • Oregon state income tax is 83% higher than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around Damascus

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Compare Damascus, OR Cost of Living

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      Median Income & Debt-To-Income Ratio

      Median Income Per Year Per Month Max Budget (28% DTI) Max Budget (36% DTI)
      Owners$152,794$12,733$3,565$4,584
      Renters$82,206$6,851$1,918$2,466
      The affordability of the housing market in Damascus, OR as well as the overall cost of living can be predicted by what percent of the monthly income is spent on housing related costs. This is konwn as the debt-to-income ratio (DTI). The overall rule of thumb is that no more than 28% of your gross income should be spent on the overall costs related to housing and no more than 36% of gross income on all expenses and debts. Among Damascus homeowners, the median income is $152,794. This indicates that a monthly maximum of $3,565 should be spent by homeowners on all housing related costs. Renters have a median income of $82,206. This indicates that renters would have a maximum of $1,918 for their rent related monthly costs.

      Oregon Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      Oregon 0% 0%

      Oregon Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      Oregon 4.75% 9.9%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Barlow, OR1891054.7%
      Johnson City, OR5548317.4%
      Wood Village, OR4,1821098.6%
      Fairview, OR9,68012423.5%
      Jennings Lodge, OR8,78112221.8%
      Damascus, OR11,21014443.8%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Vermillion, SD11,210937.3%
      Totowa, NJ11,21213636.1%
      Dobbs Ferry, NY11,21217474.3%
      River Forest, IL11,21515251.7%
      Sussex, WI11,20411211.5%
      Damascus, OR11,21014443.8%
      Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.