Cost of Living in Des Moines County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Des Moines County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Des Moines County, Iowa
Des Moines County's rent burden climbs high
At 18.0%, Des Moines County's rent-to-income ratio is the worst in this comparison and significantly exceeds the national average of 14%—a troubling gap of 4 percentage points. With median household income of just $60,662 (19% below the national median) and monthly rent of $908, the county faces genuine affordability stress.
Least affordable rents in Iowa
Des Moines County's 18.0% rent-to-income ratio far exceeds Iowa's 14.1% state average, marking it as the least affordable rental market statewide in this analysis. The median rent of $908 sits 12% above Iowa's average of $812, while median income of $60,662 lags the state by a significant margin.
Des Moines struggles compared to peers
Des Moines County's 18.0% rent-to-income ratio dramatically outpaces neighboring Dickinson (15.0%) and Dubuque (14.9%), signaling acute affordability pressure. Even compared to economically challenged Decatur County (13.9%), Des Moines renters face disproportionate housing burden.
Housing squeezes Des Moines budgets
Renters in Des Moines County spend 18.0% of their $60,662 income—roughly $910 monthly—on housing, leaving limited funds for other essentials. Homeowners allocate 18.5% to $930 owner costs for properties valued at $137,000, indicating housing strain across both rental and ownership sectors.
Des Moines County demands income caution
Considering a move to Des Moines County? Budget carefully: its 18.0% rent-to-income ratio means housing consumes nearly one-fifth of household income, far above healthy levels. Unless relocating with above-average income prospects, this county presents genuine affordability challenges.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Des Moines County
Rent Burden
18.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,415
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Des Moines County
Median home value is $137,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,094 vs. your max of $1,415.
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.