Cost of Living in Dubuque County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Dubuque County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Dubuque County, Iowa
Dubuque County mirrors national rent burden
At 14.9%, Dubuque County's rent-to-income ratio sits just slightly above the national average of 14%, indicating relatively typical U.S. housing affordability pressure. The median household income of $75,919 nearly matches the national median of $74,755, while monthly rent of $944 reflects the county's position as Iowa's largest riverside metro.
Above-average costs, average incomes
Dubuque County's median rent of $944 exceeds Iowa's state average of $812 by 16%, while its 14.9% rent-to-income ratio slightly surpasses the state average of 14.1%. The county's housing market is moderately expensive by state standards, driven by its regional economic hub status.
Dubuque pricier but income-balanced
Dubuque's $944 rent sits between Dickinson ($930) and Dallas ($1,239), while its median income of $75,919 trails Dallas ($102,349) but exceeds most rural peers like Decatur ($57,146) and Des Moines ($60,662). The county balances higher housing costs with adequate earning potential.
Balanced housing across tenure types
Renters spend 14.9% of their $75,919 income on $944 monthly rent, while homeowners dedicate 18.0% to $1,141 owner costs for $226,100 properties. Dubuque presents reasonably balanced affordability across both rental and ownership markets, though homeownership requires greater income commitment.
Dubuque balances cost and opportunity
Relocating to Dubuque County offers Iowa's second-largest metro area with moderate affordability: rents run 16% above state average but incomes are sufficient to support both renting and homeownership. For those seeking small-city amenities without extreme housing strain, Dubuque rewards the move.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Dubuque County
Rent Burden
14.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,771
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.0%
of gross income
The median home in Dubuque County may be a stretch
Median home value is $226,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,805 vs. your max of $1,771.
Rent Affordability Guide
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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.