Cost of Living in Hardin County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Hardin County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Hardin County ranks #1,781 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 43%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Hardin County, Iowa
Renting stretches incomes in Hardin
Hardin County residents spend 15.1% of income on rent, topping the national average and placing housing costs in less comfortable territory. With a median household income of $64,906—nearly $10,000 below the national average—renters here pay $814 monthly, which adds pressure to already-tighter budgets.
Hardin lags behind Iowa on affordability
At 15.1%, Hardin County's rent-to-income ratio exceeds Iowa's state average of 14.1%, signaling it's less affordable than many neighboring counties. The median rent of $814 also tops the state average, making it one of Iowa's less budget-friendly rental markets.
Among the pricier options regionally
Hardin's $814 rent is the highest in this cluster, edging out Hancock ($784) and significantly outpacing Howard ($699) and Ida ($669). Homebuyers pay $787 monthly, which is competitive with neighbors, and median home values of $113,000 remain affordable despite rental pressures.
Rent eats into already-tight budgets
Hardin's median household income of $64,906 means a typical $814 rent payment consumes 15% of gross income before taxes, taxes, and other essentials. Homebuyers face similar strain with $787 monthly costs, leaving less cushion than the national 30% affordability standard would allow.
Consider Hardin if homeownership calls
For renters, Hardin's 15.1% ratio signals affordability challenges, but homebuyers may find relief with lower mortgage costs relative to income. If you're ready to buy, Hardin's $113,000 median home price and $787 monthly payment could offer a path out of tight rental markets.
Cost of Living Advisory: Hardin County
Affordability Verdict
Hardin County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $814/month representing approximately 15.0% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 27.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Hardin County pay $814/month on average, compared to $787/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 3%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,560/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $33,729/year. With a median household income of $64,906, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Hardin County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Hardin County sits 6% less expensive than Plymouth County ($865/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Hardin County
Rent Burden
15.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,514
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Hardin County
Median home value is $113,000. Estimated monthly cost: $902 vs. your max of $1,514.
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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