Cost of Living in Jones County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jones County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Jones County ranks #524 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 17%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jones County, Iowa
Jones County delivers genuine affordability
Jones County's rent-to-income ratio of 12.5% ranks among the nation's most affordable, well below the 30% affordability threshold and lower than nearly all U.S. counties. With median household income at $73,071—nearly matching the national average of $74,755—renters enjoy strong purchasing power and manageable monthly housing costs.
Jones leads Iowa's affordability rankings
At 12.5%, Jones County's rent-to-income ratio beats Iowa's 14.1% state average by 1.6 percentage points, making it among the state's most affordable counties. The $759 median monthly rent is the lowest in the region, and the combination of lower rents and above-average income creates an exceptional affordability profile.
Jones is the region's affordability champion
Jones County's $759 rent and 12.5% ratio significantly outperform all nearby competitors: Jackson ($800, 13.4%), Jasper ($822, 14.1%), and Johnson ($1,104, 17.7%). For families and renters prioritizing housing affordability in Iowa, Jones offers the clearest advantage in this eight-county comparison.
Jones keeps housing costs manageable
Renters allocate just $759 monthly (12.5% of $73,071 income), leaving substantial resources for savings, healthcare, and other essentials. Homeowners spend $983 monthly, maintaining the county's reputation for balanced ownership costs relative to median home value of $183,400.
Jones County is a relocation sweet spot
If affordability drives your move to Iowa, Jones County delivers the best combination of low rents and strong incomes in this region. Compare it against Jackson (similar vibe, slightly higher costs) and nearby Kossuth County (also affordable, but with lower household incomes) to ensure the fit matches your employment and lifestyle needs.
Cost of Living Advisory: Jones County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Jones County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $759/month in gross rent, with 24.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Jones County is $759/month, while owner costs run $983/month. Renting saves approximately $224/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,360/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $42,129/year. With a median household income of $73,071, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Jones County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Shelby County where rent averages $810/month, Jones County is approximately 6% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jones County
Rent Burden
12.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,705
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Jones County
Median home value is $183,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,464 vs. your max of $1,705.
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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