Cost of Living in Plymouth County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Plymouth County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Plymouth County ranks #1,871 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 40%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Plymouth County, Iowa
Plymouth pays premium for higher incomes
Plymouth County's 12.7% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national average, supported by a median household income of $81,600—above both state and national medians. At $865 per month, rents run 6% above the state average, but stronger local wages make housing more manageable here than in lower-income counties.
Above-average incomes fuel affordability
Plymouth County ranks in the upper half of Iowa counties for affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio below the state average of 14.1%. This performance stems primarily from above-average household incomes rather than below-average rents.
Higher rents reflect stronger local economy
Plymouth County's $865 rent exceeds nearby Palo Alto County ($599) and Pocahontas County ($743), reflecting a more competitive regional housing market. However, Plymouth's significantly higher median incomes ($81,600 vs neighbors' $63,400–$68,900) make these higher rents proportionally more affordable.
Ownership slightly pricier than renting
Renters spend $865 monthly while homeowners pay $942, with median home values reaching $218,600—substantially higher than rural county averages. Both tenure types consume roughly 12–14% of the $81,600 median income, leaving strong discretionary income for families and individuals.
Premium housing for premium incomes
Plymouth County appeals to professionals and families with above-average earnings who want affordable housing in a stronger economic hub. Higher home values and rents reflect a healthier local job market—making relocation here sensible primarily for those with job prospects to match.
Cost of Living Advisory: Plymouth County
Affordability Verdict
Plymouth County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $865/month representing approximately 12.7% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 17.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $865/month rent versus $942/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $77/month cheaper — a 8% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,600/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $40,371/year. With a median household income of $81,600, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 17.0% of renter households in Plymouth County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Iowa, Plymouth County is more affordable than Hardin County by roughly 6% ($865/mo vs $814/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Plymouth County
Rent Burden
12.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,904
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Plymouth County
Median home value is $218,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,745 vs. your max of $1,904.
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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