Cost of Living in Ringgold County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Ringgold County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Ringgold County ranks #519 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 17%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Ringgold County, Iowa
Ringgold offers solid affordability baseline
At 12.8% of household income, Ringgold County renters beat the national average for affordability, with median rents of $745 paired against a median income of $69,821. This county delivers genuine rental affordability despite slightly below-average local incomes.
Below-average rents, better affordability
Ringgold County's 12.8% rent-to-income ratio ranks well below Iowa's 14.1% state average, positioning it among the state's more affordable counties. This favorable status stems from reasonable rent levels combined with reasonably strong local incomes.
Competitive in south-central region
Ringgold County's $745 rent matches Pocahontas County and undercuts Poweshiek County ($864) by $119 monthly. Paired with above-average incomes for a rural county, Ringgold offers solid regional value for renters.
Ownership costs spike dramatically
Renters pay $745 monthly while homeowners spend $1,074—a striking 44% gap reflecting median home values of $150,300. Renters spend just 12.8% of the $69,821 income on housing, but buyers commit 18.4%—a substantial ownership premium.
Renters' haven, buyers beware
Ringgold County appeals strongly to renters seeking rural affordability, as housing costs consume far less income here than neighboring counties. Prospective homebuyers should carefully evaluate whether ownership costs justify the investment, as rental affordability doesn't translate to purchasing ease.
Cost of Living Advisory: Ringgold County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Ringgold County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $745/month in gross rent, with 28.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Ringgold County pay $745/month on average, compared to $1,074/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 31%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,800/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $46,029/year. With a median household income of $69,821, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Ringgold County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Ringgold County sits 6% less expensive than Osceola County ($796/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Ringgold County
Rent Burden
12.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,629
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Ringgold County
Median home value is $150,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,200 vs. your max of $1,629.
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 Ringgold County, Iowa?
What is the median rent in Ringgold County?
Is Ringgold County affordable?
How does Ringgold County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Ringgold County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Ringgold County, Iowa? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Ringgold 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.