Cost of Living in Harrison County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Harrison County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Harrison County ranks #729 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 23%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Harrison County, Iowa
Harrison offers excellent renter deals
Harrison County renters spend just 13.3% of income on housing, beating the national average and reflecting strong affordability. Despite higher median incomes of $77,027—above both state and national averages—renters here pay $854 monthly, balancing income and cost effectively.
Among Iowa's most affordable counties
With a 13.3% rent-to-income ratio, Harrison County outperforms Iowa's 14.1% state average, ranking solidly in the top tier for renter affordability. The $854 median rent exceeds the state average of $812, yet higher incomes ($77,027) make it manageable.
Premium pricing with premium incomes
Harrison's $854 rent and $974 monthly mortgage are the highest in this cluster, reflecting its wealthier profile: median income of $77,027 tops all neighbors. Its $165,300 median home value is also the highest, positioning Harrison as the region's affluent hub.
Higher costs, higher incomes balance well
Harrison's $77,027 median income sustains both $854 rent and $974 mortgage payments while maintaining healthy affordability ratios of 13.3% for renters and roughly 15% for owners. The math works because incomes here run stronger than in neighboring counties.
Best bet if your income is solid
Harrison County suits relocators with stable, above-average incomes seeking a vibrant community with strong schools and amenities. The higher costs are offset by strong earning potential and excellent public services across the county.
Cost of Living Advisory: Harrison County
Affordability Verdict
Harrison County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $854/month representing approximately 13.3% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 24.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $854/month rent versus $974/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $120/month cheaper — a 12% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,160/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $41,743/year. With a median household income of $77,027, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Harrison County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Buchanan County where rent averages $802/month, Harrison County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Harrison County
Rent Burden
13.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,797
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Harrison County
Median home value is $165,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,320 vs. your max of $1,797.
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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