Cost of Living in Keokuk County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Keokuk County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Keokuk County, Iowa
Keokuk renters face affordability challenges
Keokuk County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.2% exceeds national comfort zones and sits 3.5 percentage points above the national average. With median household income of $60,856—notably below the national average of $74,755—renters struggle to balance housing costs with other expenses despite access to lower absolute rents.
Keokuk strains above Iowa's state average
At 16.2%, Keokuk's rent-to-income ratio exceeds Iowa's 14.1% state average, placing it among the state's less affordable counties despite rents near the state median. The combination of below-average incomes and typical rents creates a tighter housing affordability picture than most Iowa peers.
Keokuk's affordability ranks mid-range regionally
Keokuk's 16.2% ratio falls between more affordable Jones (12.5%), Jackson (13.4%), and Jasper (14.1%), but significantly better than Jefferson (18.6%) or Johnson (17.7%). The $822 monthly rent is modest, but lower household incomes push the affordability burden higher than counties with similar rents.
Keokuk's low home values help ownership
Renters spend $822 monthly (16.2% of $60,856 income), creating budget strain, but prospective homeowners find relief in the lowest median home value in this comparison at $112,200. Monthly owner costs of $834 suggest that purchasing could be more manageable than renting for qualified Keokuk households.
Keokuk works for homebuyers with local jobs
Keokuk's ultra-affordable home values ($112,200) and reasonable ownership costs ($834/month) make it attractive for buyers seeking low-cost homeownership. But if you're relocating to rent, prioritize Jones, Jackson, or Kossuth counties with better rent-to-income ratios—or ensure your incoming job income aligns with Keokuk's local wage levels.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Keokuk County
Rent Burden
16.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,420
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Keokuk County
Median home value is $112,200. Estimated monthly cost: $896 vs. your max of $1,420.
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.