Cost of Living in Iowa County, Wisconsin
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Iowa County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Iowa County ranks #948 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 30%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Iowa County, Wisconsin
Iowa County rents: better than average
At 13.5%, Iowa County's rent-to-income ratio beats the national norm and sits comfortably below the 30% affordability threshold that housing experts recommend. The median household income here is $83,372—$8,617 above the national median—giving residents more breathing room in their monthly budgets.
Solid footing in Wisconsin
Iowa County ranks among the more affordable Wisconsin counties with a rent-to-income ratio of 13.5%, better than the state average of 14.9%. Median rent of $941 is only slightly higher than Wisconsin's $891 state average, reflecting competitive housing costs for the region.
Competitive with surrounding areas
Iowa County's median rent of $941 aligns closely with neighboring Jackson County ($789) and Juneau County ($847), though it runs higher than rural Iron County ($640). Home values here average $248,100—a premium over Iron and Jackson counties but competitive for south-central Wisconsin.
Where Iowa County dollars go
Renters spend roughly $941 monthly while homeowners face $1,183 in costs—totaling 13.5% and 17.0% of median household income respectively. With a median income of $83,372 annually, both housing paths remain within manageable ranges for most households.
Iowa County for value seekers
If you're weighing south-central Wisconsin options, Iowa County delivers above-average incomes paired with below-average rent burdens. Compare its 13.5% rent ratio against Kenosha's 17.8% or La Crosse's 17.4%—the savings add up fast.
Cost of Living Advisory: Iowa County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Iowa County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $941/month in gross rent, with 23.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Iowa County is $941/month, while owner costs run $1,183/month. Renting saves approximately $242/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $37,640/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $50,700/year. With a median household income of $83,372, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in Iowa County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Iowa County sits 6% more expensive than Sheboygan County ($889/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Iowa County
Rent Burden
13.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,945
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.0%
of gross income
The median home in Iowa County may be a stretch
Median home value is $248,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,981 vs. your max of $1,945.
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
What is the cost of living in Iowa County, Wisconsin?
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Is Iowa County affordable?
How does Iowa County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Iowa County?
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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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