Cost of Living in Humboldt County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Humboldt County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Humboldt County ranks #352 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 11%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Humboldt County, Iowa
Humboldt renters beat national averages
Humboldt County renters spend 13.1% of income on housing, comfortably below the national standard and reflecting genuine affordability. With a median household income of $66,994 and median rent of $731, this county offers reliable financial breathing room.
Better than Iowa's state average
At 13.1%, Humboldt County's rent-to-income ratio beats Iowa's state average of 14.1%, placing it among the state's more affordable counties. The $731 median rent is $81 below the state average, further strengthening its affordability case.
Solid value in a competitive cluster
Humboldt's $731 rent sits between Howard's excellent $699 and Hancock's $784, offering good value without being the absolute cheapest. Its $789 monthly mortgage and $146,900 home value make homeownership accessible for households with modest incomes.
Balanced affordability for both groups
Humboldt's $66,994 median income supports a manageable 13.1% rent burden or roughly 14.1% for homeowners paying $789 monthly. Both renter and owner households stay well below the 30% affordability threshold, allowing flexibility in household planning.
Sweet spot for stable, practical movers
Humboldt County offers the stability of strong affordability without requiring the highest incomes—ideal for families and individuals seeking reliable, predictable housing costs. Its combination of reasonable rents and modest home prices makes it a safe, sensible choice.
Cost of Living Advisory: Humboldt County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Humboldt County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $731/month in gross rent, with 20.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $731/month rent versus $789/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $58/month cheaper — a 7% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,240/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $33,814/year. With a median household income of $66,994, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 20.0% of renter households in Humboldt County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Montgomery County where rent averages $782/month, Humboldt County is approximately 7% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Humboldt County
Rent Burden
13.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,563
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Humboldt County
Median home value is $146,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,173 vs. your max of $1,563.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Humboldt County, Iowa?
What is the median rent in Humboldt County?
Is Humboldt County affordable?
How does Humboldt County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Humboldt County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Humboldt County, Iowa? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Humboldt County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.