Helena vs Merced
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Helena is 23% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $857/mo vs $1,055/mo in Merced — saving $2,376/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Helena | Merced | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $577 | $696 | $119 |
| 1 Bedroom | $711 | $865 | $154 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $857 | $1,055 | $198 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,057 | $1,328 | $271 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,186 | $1,460 | $274 |
| Median Income | $47,790 | $60,958 | $13,168 |
Helena
- Studio
- $577/mo
- 1 BR
- $711/mo
- 2 BR
- $857/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,057/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,186/mo
- Median Income
- $47,790/yr
Merced
- Studio
- $696/mo
- 1 BR
- $865/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,055/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,328/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,460/mo
- Median Income
- $60,958/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Helena or Merced cheaper to rent in?
Helena is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $857/mo vs $1,055/mo in Merced. That's $198/mo or $2,376/year more expensive in Merced (23% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Helena vs Merced?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Helena is $857/month. In Merced, a 2-bedroom FMR is $1,055/month.
How do incomes compare between Helena and Merced?
The median household income in Helena is $47,790/year. In Merced it is $60,958/year. Merced has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Helena vs Merced?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Helena is $577/mo. In Merced it is $696/mo.