Cost of Living in Bremer County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Bremer County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Bremer County, Iowa
Bremer rents beat the national average
At 12.2%, Bremer County's rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national benchmark and well ahead of Iowa's 14.1% average. Renters here spend significantly less of their paycheck on housing than typical American households, making it one of the more affordable rental markets in the region.
Top-tier affordability in Iowa
Bremer County ranks among Iowa's most affordable counties for renters, with a 12.2% rent-to-income ratio that beats the state average by nearly 2 percentage points. The county's median household income of $83,343 provides strong cushion against housing costs.
Bremer's sweet spot in Northeast Iowa
Neighboring Buchanan County ($802 rent) and Cedar County ($860 rent) offer comparable options, but Bremer's $844 monthly rent paired with the highest median income ($83,343) in this cluster makes it the most forgiving for renters. Just to the west, Calhoun County ($690 rent) undercuts Bremer on housing costs but with $17,000 less in annual income.
Income cushion protects renters here
Renters spend just $844 monthly while homeowners pay $1,037, but Bremer's $83,343 median household income means housing costs consume a manageable slice of earnings. Only 12.2% of income goes to rent—among the lowest percentages statewide.
Consider Bremer if affordability matters
If you're relocating to Iowa, Bremer County offers rare combination: strong wages ($83,343), moderate rents ($844), and the flexibility to buy or rent without financial strain. The county's 12.2% rent-to-income ratio gives you options other regions can't match.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Bremer County
Rent Burden
12.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,945
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Bremer County
Median home value is $207,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,654 vs. your max of $1,945.
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.