Cost of Living in Adams County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Adams County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Adams County, Iowa
Adams renters stretch thin nationally
Adams County renters spend 15.8% of income on housing—higher than the national sustainable threshold and above Iowa's 14.1% average. Against the national median income of $74,755, Adams households earn $68,828, intensifying affordability pressure.
Struggling in Iowa's affordability rankings
Adams County's 15.8% rent-to-income ratio places it in the less affordable half of Iowa counties. The $909 median rent significantly exceeds the state average of $812, signaling tighter housing budgets for renters.
Priciest rents in this cluster
Adams County's $909 rent is the highest among comparable rural counties—$179 more than Adair's $730 and $192 above Audubon's $707. This premium creates measurably higher rent burdens despite a decent median income of $68,828.
Adams: rent-heavy, income-light
With median rent at $909 and income at $68,828 annually, renters dedicate nearly 16% to housing while homeowners spend $752 monthly. The rent-ownership gap reveals that buying remains substantially cheaper than renting in this market.
Homebuyers find value; renters beware
If you're considering Adams County, purchasing makes financial sense—mortgage costs run nearly $157 less than rent. Renters should weigh the premium against adjacent counties like Adair or Audubon, where affordability improves significantly.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Adams County
Rent Burden
15.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,606
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Adams County
Median home value is $116,900. Estimated monthly cost: $933 vs. your max of $1,606.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.