Cost of Living in Osceola County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Osceola County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Osceola County ranks #246 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 8%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Osceola County, Iowa
Osceola County stays near national norms
Osceola County renters spend 13.8% of income on housing, just shy of the national affordability sweet spot and well below stress thresholds. With a median household income of $69,138—just slightly below the national average of $74,755—residents maintain comfortable financial headroom for housing expenses.
Competitive with Iowa's state average
Osceola County's rent-to-income ratio of 13.8% sits just below Iowa's state average of 14.1%, ranking it among the state's more livable counties. Renters pay $796 monthly, nearly identical to the state median of $812, making it a representative option across Iowa's housing landscape.
Upper tier of the eight-county region
Osceola County renters spend 13.8% of income on $796 rent, placing it in the region's better-affordability group alongside Mills County (12.1%) and Mitchell County (12.9%). Only O'Brien County (13.6%) matches Osceola's affordability, making both reliable options for cost-conscious households.
Ownership costs notably lower here
Osceola County renters dedicate 13.8% of their $69,138 income to $796 monthly rent, while homebuyers pay just $749 on properties worth $123,800. The $47 monthly savings on ownership make it a compelling alternative for those able to secure mortgage financing.
Strong county for budget-conscious homebuyers
Osceola County stands out for its affordability advantage in homeownership: monthly costs undercut rents while homes remain modestly priced at $123,800. If you're relocating to Iowa and can qualify for a mortgage, Osceola delivers superior long-term housing affordability compared to renting.
Cost of Living Advisory: Osceola County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Osceola County is affordable. The median rent is $796/month against a median household income of $69,138, putting rent at 13.8% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $796/month rent versus $749/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $47/month cheaper — a 6% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,840/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $32,100/year. With a median household income of $69,138, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Osceola County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Osceola County sits 7% more expensive than Ringgold County ($745/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Osceola County
Rent Burden
13.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,613
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Osceola County
Median home value is $123,800. Estimated monthly cost: $988 vs. your max of $1,613.
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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