Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jefferson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Iowa
Jefferson faces a national affordability challenge
Jefferson County residents dedicate 18.6% of income to rent—nearly 40% higher than the acceptable 30% affordability threshold and significantly above the national average. With a median household income of $56,824, residents earn substantially less than the national average of $74,755, creating a genuine affordability strain.
Jefferson struggles compared to Iowa peers
At 18.6%, Jefferson's rent-to-income ratio ranks among Iowa's highest, far exceeding the state average of 14.1% by 4.5 percentage points. The $881 monthly rent is above Iowa's median, but the real problem is the combination of higher rents and lower household incomes unique to this county.
Jefferson's affordability lag is clear in the region
Jefferson's 18.6% ratio significantly outpaces nearby Jackson (13.4%), Jones (12.5%), and Jasper (14.1%), making it the region's least affordable county. The $881 rent isn't dramatically higher, but the lower local income base ($56,824) creates disproportionate pressure on household budgets.
Housing costs strain Jefferson's family budgets
Renters spend $881 monthly (18.6% of the $56,824 median income), leaving limited resources for food, transportation, and healthcare. Homeowners fare somewhat better at $915 monthly, but both groups face tighter housing-cost constraints than neighboring counties with similar home values.
Relocating to Jefferson requires higher income
Jefferson County offers lower home values ($161,200) and reasonable ownership costs, making it viable for remote workers or retirees with outside income. If your job and income are mobile, consider more affordable Jackson or Jones counties—or ensure your income aligns with Jefferson's local wage levels before moving.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jefferson County
Rent Burden
18.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,326
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Jefferson County
Median home value is $161,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,287 vs. your max of $1,326.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.