Cost of Living in Marshall County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Marshall County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Marshall County, Iowa
Marshall's Rents Track with National
Marshall County renters spend 14.2% of their income on rent, essentially at the national average and just above Iowa's state average of 14.1%. With median income of $72,785 and median rent of $860, the county sits right on the border of affordability.
Slightly Above State Average
Marshall County's 14.2% rent-to-income ratio edges above Iowa's state average, while median rent of $860 exceeds the state average of $812 by $48. This positions Marshall in the mid-to-upper range of housing costs statewide.
Above Average for the Region
Marshall's $860 median rent ranks fifth among the eight counties, trailing only Linn ($915) and Madison ($938) but beating Lucas and Louisa significantly. Home values of $134,100 are modest, suggesting housing demand isn't driving premium prices.
Housing Consumes More Here
Marshall households earning $72,785 spend $860 on median rent (14.2% of income) or $934 on mortgages (15.4% of income). These ratios represent some of the tighter housing burdens in the region, leaving less discretionary income than neighboring counties.
Marshall Works for Budget-Conscious
If you're relocating to Iowa and prioritize affordability, Marshall County's moderate income and rents work better than Linn or Madison but offer less value than Louisa or Lucas. Visit to assess job markets and community fit, as housing costs alone don't tell the full story.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Marshall County
Rent Burden
14.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,698
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Marshall County
Median home value is $134,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,071 vs. your max of $1,698.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Marshall County, Iowa?
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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.