Cost of Living in Polk County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Polk County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Polk County ranks #2,788 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 11%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Polk County, Iowa
Iowa's urban core tests affordability limits
Polk County's 16.4% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the national average, placing it among the country's more expensive housing markets relative to local incomes. At $1,113 per month, median rents run 37% above the state average, reflecting the Des Moines metro's status as a regional economic hub.
Most expensive county in Iowa by far
Polk County tops all Iowa counties for housing costs as a share of income, with renters spending 16.4%—significantly above the state average of 14.1%. This reflects Des Moines' urban premium, where higher incomes ($81,621 median) still struggle to keep pace with rising rental and ownership costs.
Urban premium over surrounding counties
Polk County's $1,113 rent far exceeds rural neighbors like Poweshiek County ($864) and Pottawattamie County ($970), a 29–52% difference. The premium reflects metropolitan demand concentrated around Des Moines, creating a sharp affordability divide between the city and surrounding agricultural counties.
Ownership costs far exceed rent burden
Renters spend $1,113 monthly while homeowners pay $1,409—a $296 gap reflecting median home values of $248,400, the highest in the dataset. Combined with strong local incomes of $81,621, ownership consumes 20.7% of income for buyers, versus 16.4% for renters.
Urban opportunity with urban housing costs
Relocating professionals drawn to Des Moines' job market and amenities should budget carefully for housing, as Polk County rents and prices run well above Iowa averages. Renters may find better affordability in surrounding counties while commuting, but direct Des Moines living commands a premium.
Cost of Living Advisory: Polk County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Polk County is affordable. The median rent is $1,113/month against a median household income of $81,621, putting rent at 16.4% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Polk County pay $1,113/month on average, compared to $1,409/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 21%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $44,520/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $60,386/year. With a median household income of $81,621, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Polk County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Polk County sits 9% more expensive than Story County ($1,019/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Polk County
Rent Burden
16.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,904
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.7%
of gross income
The median home in Polk County may be a stretch
Median home value is $248,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,983 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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