Cost of Living in Wright County, Iowa
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Wright County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Wright County ranks #618 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 20%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Wright County, Iowa
Wright County rents align with national trends
Wright County renters spend 14.8% of their income on rent, nearly matching the national average of roughly 15%. However, the county's median household income of $64,033 trails the national median of $74,755 by over $10,000, meaning residents earn less while paying proportionally similar housing costs.
Slightly below state average for rent burden
Wright County's 14.8% rent-to-income ratio sits just below Iowa's state average of 14.1%, placing it in the middle of the three counties. With median rent at $788, the county runs $24 above the state median of $812, reflecting moderate housing demand.
Middle ground between Worth and Woodbury
Wright County's $788 rent falls between Worth's $703 and Woodbury's $946, while its $64,033 income is the lowest of the three. Despite the lowest earnings, Wright County's modest housing costs and lowest median home value ($109,800) keep affordability manageable.
Lowest earners, lowest housing prices
Wright County renters pay $788 monthly while homeowners spend $716 on properties valued at just $109,800—the region's most affordable homes. With median income at $64,033, housing consumes roughly 15% of gross income for renters, but the low home values create strong ownership opportunities.
Best homebuying opportunity for budget buyers
Wright County's $109,800 median home value and $716 monthly owner costs offer the most accessible path to homeownership in the region, especially for lower-income households. If building equity matters more than renting flexibility, Wright County's affordable properties and modest ongoing costs make it worth serious consideration.
Cost of Living Advisory: Wright County
Affordability Verdict
Wright County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $788/month representing approximately 14.8% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 25.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Wright County is $788/month, while owner costs run $716/month. Owning saves approximately $72/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,520/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $30,686/year. With a median household income of $64,033, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Wright County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Wright County sits 6% less expensive than Cerro Gordo County ($840/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Wright County
Rent Burden
14.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,494
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Wright County
Median home value is $109,800. Estimated monthly cost: $877 vs. your max of $1,494.
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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