Cost of Living in Clarke County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Clarke County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Clarke County ranks #2,211 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 30%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Clarke County, Iowa
Clarke County housing edges above national norm
Clarke County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.0% slightly exceeds the national average, driven by modest wages ($66,821 median income) meeting moderate rents ($836). Housing consumes a notably higher share of income than more balanced markets, particularly challenging for lower-wage households.
Less affordable than most Iowa counties
Clarke's 15.0% rent-to-income ratio ranks above Iowa's state average of 14.1%, placing it in the less-affordable half of the state's counties. With median rent of $836—$24 above the state average—housing competition here is moderately fierce.
Among the pricier options in the region
Clarke County's $836 rent ranks as the second-highest in this eight-county comparison, undercutting only Cerro Gordo's $840. Owner costs are notably steeper at $1,084 monthly, suggesting higher-value homes attracting wealthier buyers and pushing up the overall market.
Homeownership carries a steep monthly bill
Clarke renters pay $836 monthly while homeowners face $1,084, a gap of $248 that reflects higher-value properties in the county. With median home values of $160,200 and median income of $66,821, affordability for first-time buyers requires careful planning.
Clarke County suits established homeowners better
If you're relocating to Clarke County, budget accordingly for housing that ranks above regional averages—particularly if you're considering ownership. Renters may find better deals in Crawford or Cherokee; homebuyers should compare Clarke's $160,200 median home value against neighboring markets.
Cost of Living Advisory: Clarke County
Affordability Verdict
Clarke County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $836/month representing approximately 15.0% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 27.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Clarke County is $836/month, while owner costs run $1,084/month. Renting saves approximately $248/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $33,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $46,457/year. With a median household income of $66,821, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Clarke County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Iowa, Clarke County is more affordable than Hancock County by roughly 7% ($836/mo vs $784/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Clarke County
Rent Burden
15.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,559
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Clarke County
Median home value is $160,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,279 vs. your max of $1,559.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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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
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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.
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