Cost of Living in Guthrie County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Guthrie County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Guthrie County ranks #570 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 18%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Guthrie County, Iowa
Guthrie County balances high income and cost
Guthrie County residents spend 12.3% of household income on housing, below the national average, supported by strong median incomes of $79,981. At $823 monthly rent, the cost is reasonable relative to what residents earn.
Well above average affordability in Iowa
Guthrie's 12.3% rent-to-income ratio beats Iowa's 14.1% state average, while median household income of $79,981 significantly exceeds state norms. The county ranks among Iowa's more prosperous and affordable communities.
Competitive pricing among stronger-income counties
Guthrie's median rent of $823 is highest in this county cluster, but paired with strong incomes of $79,981—second only to Grundy—the burden remains manageable at 12.3%. Guthrie residents earn enough to absorb the higher rent comfortably.
Strong income supports quality housing
Guthrie households earn $79,981 annually while dedicating $823 to rent or $958 to homeownership, leaving substantial income for other needs. The median home value of $163,900 reflects solid community investment and remains accessible to local earners.
Guthrie suits prosperous rural seekers
If you're relocating with above-average income, Guthrie County offers excellent small-town living with strong local wages and manageable housing costs. Your purchasing power here supports quality homes and community amenities.
Cost of Living Advisory: Guthrie County
Affordability Verdict
Guthrie County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $823/month representing approximately 12.3% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 26.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $823/month rent versus $958/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $135/month cheaper — a 14% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,920/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $41,057/year. With a median household income of $79,981, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Guthrie County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Iowa, Guthrie County is more affordable than Henry County by roughly 7% ($823/mo vs $770/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Guthrie County
Rent Burden
12.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,866
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Guthrie County
Median home value is $163,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,308 vs. your max of $1,866.
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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