Cost of Living in Pottawattamie County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Pottawattamie County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Pottawattamie County ranks #2,815 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 10%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Pottawattamie County, Iowa
Pottawattamie rents strain tighter budgets
At 16.3% of household income, Pottawattamie County renters exceed the national average rent-to-income ratio, with median rents of $970 consuming a significant share of the $71,446 median income. This makes the county one of the pricier rental markets in Iowa relative to earnings.
Among Iowa's costliest counties overall
Pottawattamie County's 16.3% rent-to-income ratio ranks it among the state's least affordable counties, trailing only Polk County (16.4%). The high rent costs relative to income reflect regional demand from the Omaha metro area's influence.
West-side premium near metro influence
Pottawattamie County's $970 rent ranks second-highest in this regional analysis, exceeded only by Polk County ($1,113). The higher costs likely reflect the county's proximity to the Omaha-Council Bluffs metropolitan area, creating regional competition for housing.
Ownership markedly pricier than renting
Renters pay $970 monthly while homeowners spend $1,130, reflecting median home values of $183,600. With median income at $71,446, renters dedicate 16.3% of income to housing while buyers commit 19%—a substantial ownership premium.
Metro-adjacent living with metro prices
Families relocating to Pottawattamie County for Omaha-area employment should expect housing costs near regional metro levels rather than rural Iowa affordability. Renters may find better value in neighboring rural counties if commuting is feasible.
Cost of Living Advisory: Pottawattamie County
Affordability Verdict
Pottawattamie County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $970/month representing approximately 16.3% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 27.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $970/month rent versus $1,130/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $160/month cheaper — a 14% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,800/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $48,429/year. With a median household income of $71,446, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Pottawattamie County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Pottawattamie County sits 6% more expensive than Linn County ($915/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Pottawattamie County
Rent Burden
16.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,667
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Pottawattamie County
Median home value is $183,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,466 vs. your max of $1,667.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Pottawattamie County, Iowa?
What is the median rent in Pottawattamie County?
Is Pottawattamie County affordable?
How does Pottawattamie County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Pottawattamie County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Pottawattamie County, Iowa? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Pottawattamie 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.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.