Cost of Living in Mills County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Mills County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Mills County, Iowa
Mills County rents remain affordable
Mills County renters spend 12.1% of their income on rent, well below the national norm of roughly 15-20% that housing experts flag as the affordability threshold. With a median household income of $87,810—17% above the national median of $74,755—residents here enjoy stronger purchasing power than most Americans.
Best rental affordability in Iowa
Mills County ranks among Iowa's most affordable counties for renters, with a rent-to-income ratio of 12.1% compared to the state average of 14.1%. Renters here pay $888 monthly against the state median rent of $812, yet their incomes are substantially higher, creating favorable affordability conditions.
Mills outpaces similar Iowa counties
Mills County renters spend $888 monthly versus $787 in Monroe County and $795 in Monona County, but Mills residents earn significantly more, making housing costs proportionally easier to manage. Mitchell County offers slightly cheaper rent at $739, but its lower median income of $68,704 means residents shoulder a heavier affordability burden.
Balanced housing costs across types
Mills County households allocate 12.1% of income to rent ($888/month) and owners invest $1,241 monthly toward mortgages on homes valued at $228,700. The county's relatively even split between rental and ownership costs reflects a stable housing market where both pathways remain accessible.
Strong income meets moderate housing costs
If you're relocating to Iowa, Mills County offers above-average incomes paired with below-average housing cost burdens—a rare combination in the region. Compare this profile to neighboring counties: you'll find Mills offers competitive rental rates with the financial flexibility that higher wages provide.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Mills County
Rent Burden
12.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,049
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Mills County
Median home value is $228,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,826 vs. your max of $2,049.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Mills County, Iowa?
What is the median rent in Mills County?
Is Mills County affordable?
How does Mills County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Mills County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Mills County, Iowa? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in Mills 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.