[throwaway98434]

There are multiple points where averaging is employed.

FMR is a close to median value. From the linked definition: "The FMR is the 40th percentile of gross rents for typical, non-substandard rental units occupied by recent movers in a local housing market"

Additionally, FMR is itself statewide average, covering both high and low cost of living areas. Low cost of living counties have units available for far below FMR values.

Low end housing in low cost of living areas can be found for under $377/mo - their estimate of affordable minimum wage rent.

[AnimalMuppet]

Valid points. Unfortunately, there are also people earning minimum wage in high cost of living areas...