Cost of Living in Winnebago County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Winnebago County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Winnebago County ranks #97 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 3%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Winnebago County, Iowa
Winnebago delivers exceptional rental value
Winnebago County residents spend 13.4% of household income on rent, matching Iowa's top performers and significantly below the national benchmark. At $712 monthly, rents fall well below the state median of $812, offering strong affordability for renters statewide.
Top-tier affordability in Iowa
Winnebago County's 13.4% rent-to-income ratio places it among Iowa's most affordable counties, competing with the state's best affordability stories. This ranking reflects genuine accessibility for households earning near the state median.
Competitive rents in north-central Iowa
Winnebago's $712 monthly rent is affordable within its region, though slightly higher than Wayne ($660) and lower than Webster ($762). Its median home value of $132,300 keeps homeownership accessible while maintaining strong rental affordability.
Housing costs leave room for savings
Winnebago households earning $63,719 spend $712 on rent, dedicating just 13.4% of income to housing and preserving over $5,400 yearly for necessities and savings. Homebuyers at $776 monthly enjoy similar proportions, making the county accessible across both rental and ownership markets.
Winnebago: affordable North Iowa living
If you're relocating to Iowa and value affordability, Winnebago County's 13.4% rent-to-income ratio and $712 monthly rents offer genuine savings. The county delivers solid value without requiring you to move to the state's most remote or economically challenged areas.
Cost of Living Advisory: Winnebago County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Winnebago County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $712/month in gross rent, with 25.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Winnebago County is $712/month, while owner costs run $776/month. Renting saves approximately $64/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $28,480/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $33,257/year. With a median household income of $63,719, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Winnebago County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Winnebago County sits 7% less expensive than Clayton County ($764/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Winnebago County
Rent Burden
13.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,487
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Winnebago County
Median home value is $132,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,056 vs. your max of $1,487.
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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