Cost of Living in Clayton County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Clayton County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Clayton County, Iowa
Clayton County housing strains lower-income earners
Clayton County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.7% sits above Iowa's state average of 14.1%, and median household income of $62,326 ranks lowest in this eight-county group. Housing consumes a disproportionately large share of already-tight household budgets here.
Below-average affordability, below-average wages
Clayton's 14.7% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Iowa's state average of 14.1%, and its median household income of $62,326 is among the state's lowest. This combination creates particular affordability pressure for renters and those seeking homeownership.
Moderate rents, lowest wages in region
Clayton's $764 rent is mid-range regionally, but its median household income of $62,326 is the lowest among these eight counties. This wage disadvantage makes any given rent level feel more burdensome, even when absolute prices are reasonable.
Housing absorbs nearly 15% of income
Clayton renters pay $764 monthly while homeowners spend $826, consuming 14.7% and 15.9% of median income respectively. With median home values of $155,700 and the region's lowest wages, ownership is particularly challenging for typical households.
Clayton County: affordable if you earn well
Relocating to Clayton County makes sense primarily if you're securing employment with above-county-median wages—housing costs are manageable only when income significantly exceeds the local $62,326 average. Compare against Cherokee or Crawford if staying within the region and prioritizing affordability.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Clayton County
Rent Burden
14.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,454
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Clayton County
Median home value is $155,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,243 vs. your max of $1,454.
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.