Cost of Living in Cass County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Cass County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Cass County, Iowa
Cass County struggles with affordability
Cass County's 15.0% rent-to-income ratio nearly matches Buena Vista as one of Iowa's least affordable counties, exceeding the state average of 14.1% by a full percentage point. The county's lowest median income in this cluster ($61,657) compounds the challenge for renters.
Cass among Iowa's toughest markets
At 15.0%, Cass County's rent-to-income ratio ranks near the bottom statewide, meaning renters here face greater affordability pressure than most Iowans. Combined with the region's lowest median income, housing costs consume a worrying share of household earnings.
Lowest income, challenging rents
Cass County's $61,657 median income is the lowest in its eight-county group, while rents of $769 remain middle-range; together, they create a squeeze. Neighboring counties with higher incomes (Bremer, Buchanan, Cedar) or lower rents (Calhoun, Carroll, Butler) offer clearer financial ground.
Housing burden hits hardest here
Renters spend $769 monthly and owners $781, with median home values of $133,300, all supported by just $61,657 household income—the region's tightest fit. At 15.0% of earnings, housing costs leave little room for other expenses.
Cass County requires careful financial planning
Relocating to Cass County demands honesty: the 15.0% rent-to-income ratio is among Iowa's worst, and median income of $61,657 is the lowest in this region. Explore Calhoun, Carroll, or Butler counties for meaningfully better financial outcomes.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Cass County
Rent Burden
15.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,439
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Cass County
Median home value is $133,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,064 vs. your max of $1,439.
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.