Cost of Living in Worth County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Worth County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Worth County ranks #58 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 2%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Worth County, Iowa
Worth County leads on rental affordability
Worth County renters spend just 11% of their income on rent, well below the national benchmark of roughly 15%. With a median household income of $76,875—slightly above the national median of $74,755—Worth County offers some of the most balanced housing economics in the region.
Most affordable among Iowa's three
Worth County's 11% rent-to-income ratio significantly undercuts Iowa's state average of 14.1%, ranking it as the most affordable of the three counties examined. Its $703 median rent runs $109 below the state average of $812, reflecting both lower costs and strong local incomes.
Cheaper rents, higher wages than rivals
Worth County's $703 rent beats Woodbury's $946 by $243 monthly and Wright's $788 by $85. The county also boasts the highest median income ($76,875) among the three, creating the strongest affordability position across all metrics.
Housing takes reasonable share of budget
Worth County renters pay $703 monthly while homeowners spend $821, with a median home value of $142,300. At 11% of income going to rent alone, households here retain more resources for savings, transportation, and other essentials compared to state and national norms.
Best affordability for Iowa relocators
Worth County combines the region's lowest rents, best rent-to-income ratio, and solid wages, making it the strongest choice for cost-conscious families seeking rural Iowa. If housing affordability shapes your move, Worth County's balance of economic opportunity and low housing costs stands out.
Cost of Living Advisory: Worth County
Affordability Verdict
Worth County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $703/month — about 11.0% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Worth County is $703/month, while owner costs run $821/month. Renting saves approximately $118/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $28,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $35,186/year. With a median household income of $76,875, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 18.0% of renter households in Worth County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Worth County sits 8% more expensive than Franklin County ($649/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Worth County
Rent Burden
11.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,794
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Worth County
Median home value is $142,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,136 vs. your max of $1,794.
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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