Cost of Living in Washington County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Washington County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Washington County ranks #1,442 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 46%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Washington County, Iowa
Washington balances income and housing costs
Washington County residents earn $71,339—below the national median of $74,755—but maintain a reasonable 14.5% rent-to-income ratio through moderate housing costs. At $862 monthly for rent, the county sits just slightly above Iowa's state average, offering balanced affordability.
Middle-of-the-road affordability in Iowa
Washington County's 14.5% rent-to-income ratio places it near Iowa's state average of 14.1%, positioning the county as representative of typical affordability statewide. This moderate standing suggests neither exceptional affordability nor unusual cost burden for renters here.
Moderate costs in southeast Iowa cluster
Washington's $862 rent falls between Van Buren ($686) and Wapello ($950), making it a middle option in the region's rental market. Its median home value of $199,600 also positions it between lower-cost and higher-cost neighboring counties, offering a balanced middle ground.
Housing balance matches regional profile
With $71,339 in median income and $862 monthly rent, Washington households dedicate 14.5% of gross income to rental housing, leaving substantial funds for taxes, food, and savings. Homebuyers at $1,063 monthly face a similar proportion, reflecting balanced cost distribution across the county.
Washington offers stable Iowa relocation
Relocating to Iowa? Washington County's 14.5% rent-to-income ratio and moderate home values ($199,600) make it a steady choice without extreme affordability or cost challenges. The county's balanced profile suits those seeking representative Iowa pricing and community stability.
Cost of Living Advisory: Washington County
Affordability Verdict
Washington County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $862/month representing approximately 14.5% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 24.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $862/month rent versus $1,063/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $201/month cheaper — a 19% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,480/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $45,557/year. With a median household income of $71,339, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Washington County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Shelby County where rent averages $810/month, Washington County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Washington County
Rent Burden
14.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,665
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Washington County
Median home value is $199,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,593 vs. your max of $1,665.
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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