Cost of Living in Mitchell County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Mitchell County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Mitchell County ranks #200 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 6%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Mitchell County, Iowa
Mitchell County holds its ground nationally
Mitchell County renters dedicate 12.9% of income to housing costs, keeping pace with national affordability standards and remaining below the typical 15-20% threshold for housing stress. Though median income ($68,704) trails the national average of $74,755, the county's modest rent of $739 helps offset the income gap.
Among Iowa's more affordable counties
Mitchell County's rent-to-income ratio of 12.9% sits comfortably below Iowa's 14.1% state average, ranking it among the state's better housing markets. Median rent of $739 undercuts the state median by $73, providing renters with one of Iowa's cheapest entry points to housing.
Lowest rents in the eight-county region
Mitchell County renters pay just $739 monthly—the region's lowest rent—compared to $888 in Mills County and $795 in Monona County. This advantage is partly offset by lower median income ($68,704), but the savings on housing still provide meaningful monthly relief for working families.
Tight affordability for renters and buyers
Mitchell County renters spend 12.9% of their $68,704 median income on $739 monthly rent, while homebuyers invest $858 monthly on properties worth $164,100. Both pathways remain accessible, though homeownership offers modest monthly savings compared to renting in this county.
Budget-friendly entry point to Iowa living
Mitchell County is Iowa's bargain-hunting option: lowest rents in the region and genuine affordability for both renters and first-time home buyers. If cost of living is your priority, this county delivers housing prices significantly below state and national norms.
Cost of Living Advisory: Mitchell County
Affordability Verdict
Mitchell County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $739/month representing approximately 12.9% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 23.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Mitchell County pay $739/month on average, compared to $858/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 14%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,560/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $36,771/year. With a median household income of $68,704, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in Mitchell County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Iowa, Mitchell County is more affordable than Van Buren County by roughly 8% ($739/mo vs $686/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Mitchell County
Rent Burden
12.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,603
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Mitchell County
Median home value is $164,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,310 vs. your max of $1,603.
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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