Cost of Living in Black Hawk County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Black Hawk County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Black Hawk County ranks #2,487 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 21%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Black Hawk County, Iowa
Black Hawk renters feel the squeeze
Black Hawk County renters spend 17.9% of income on housing, substantially above Iowa's 14.1% average and creeping toward concern levels. With median income at $64,581—below the national average of $74,755—renters face measurable affordability strain.
Iowa's more expensive rental market
Black Hawk County's 17.9% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Iowa's less affordable counties. The $962 median rent is the highest in this eight-county cluster, reflecting the county's urban character and competitive housing market.
Black Hawk's urban premium visible
Black Hawk County's $962 rent significantly exceeds all rural peers—$232 above Adair's $730 and even $53 above Adams's $909. The county's median home value of $182,400 suggests stronger property demand, but rents spike accordingly for tenants.
Urban costs meet modest incomes
Black Hawk renters earning $64,581 spend $962 monthly on housing (17.9% of income) while homeowners commit $1,043. Both figures consume substantial income shares, leaving less for savings or unexpected expenses.
Black Hawk: quality of life, not deals
Black Hawk County (home to Waterloo and Cedar Falls) offers urban amenities and job diversity that justify higher rents—but affordability-conscious renters should compare rural alternatives. If you value walkability and services over savings, Black Hawk's competitive market may be worth it.
Cost of Living Advisory: Black Hawk County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Black Hawk County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $962/month in gross rent, with 29.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $962/month rent versus $1,043/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $81/month cheaper — a 8% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,480/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $44,700/year. With a median household income of $64,581, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Black Hawk County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Adams County where rent averages $909/month, Black Hawk County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Black Hawk County
Rent Burden
17.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,507
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Black Hawk County
Median home value is $182,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,456 vs. your max of $1,507.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Black Hawk County, Iowa?
What is the median rent in Black Hawk County?
Is Black Hawk County affordable?
How does Black Hawk County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Black Hawk County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Black Hawk County, Iowa? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Black Hawk County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.