Cost of Living in Van Buren County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Van Buren County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Van Buren County ranks #533 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 17%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Van Buren County, Iowa
Van Buren rents beat national affordability
Van Buren County residents spend 13.7% of household income on rent, well below the national average and better than Iowa's state average of 14.1%. At $686 monthly, rents here are $126 cheaper than the state median, offering genuine affordability compared to the national norm.
Among Iowa's most affordable counties
Van Buren ranks near the top of Iowa counties for rental affordability, with a 13.7% rent-to-income ratio that beats two-thirds of the state. This positions the county as a strong option for renters seeking Iowa value without sacrificing community quality.
Competitive with similar southeastern Iowa
Van Buren's $686 rent is $26 cheaper than neighboring Wayne County and $176 below Warren County, making it the rental bargain of its region. Homeownership costs are similarly modest at $689 monthly, appealing to both renters and buyers seeking modest housing expenses.
Housing takes modest slice of income
With a median household income of $60,183 and combined housing costs under $700 monthly for renters, Van Buren leaves families $4,300+ annually for other necessities. Homebuyers with median monthly costs of $689 enjoy similar breathing room, spending just 13.7% of income on shelter.
Consider Van Buren for Iowa value
If you're relocating to Iowa and prioritize affordability, Van Buren delivers competitive rents ($686) and entry-level home prices ($118,800) without the premium of faster-growing counties. The county's strong rent-to-income ratio suggests your paycheck stretches further here than in most of the state.
Cost of Living Advisory: Van Buren County
Affordability Verdict
Van Buren County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $686/month representing approximately 13.7% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 28.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $686/month rent versus $689/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $3/month cheaper — a 0% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $27,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $29,529/year. With a median household income of $60,183, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Van Buren County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Iowa, Van Buren County is less affordable than Lucas County by roughly 7% ($686/mo vs $738/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Van Buren County
Rent Burden
13.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,404
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Van Buren County
Median home value is $118,800. Estimated monthly cost: $948 vs. your max of $1,404.
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 Van Buren County, Iowa?
What is the median rent in Van Buren County?
Is Van Buren County affordable?
How does Van Buren County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Van Buren County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Van Buren County, Iowa? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Van Buren 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.