Can I Afford to Live in Iowa?
Iowa - One of the most affordable states with Des Moines as a rising tech city. See median rent, home values, and the most affordable ZIP codes below.
Find ZIP Codes You Can Afford in Iowa
Enter your salary to see neighborhoods in your budget.
🏠 To Buy in Iowa
With median home value of $175,000, you'd typically need an income of at least $43,750/year and a down payment of $17,500 (10%).
🏘️ To Rent in Iowa
With median rent of $850/month, you should earn at least $31K/year (30% rent-to-income rule). This is below the US median of $1,163/mo.
💰 Median Income
Iowa residents earn a median household income of $63,482/year. Rent takes approximately 16% of median income.
Most Affordable ZIP Codes in Iowa
Ranked by lowest median rent, minimum population 3,000+
Top-Rated Neighborhoods in Iowa
Highest ZipScore - best combination of safety, schools, and quality of life
FAQs: Living in Iowa
What salary do I need to live comfortably in Iowa?
To live comfortably in Iowa, you'd want to earn at least $30,600/year to rent at the median price without being cost-burdened (spending more than 30% of income on housing). To buy at the median home price of $175,000, aim for a salary of $43,750+.
Is Iowa expensive to live in?
Iowa has a median rent of $850/month, which is below the US national median of $1,163. Cost varies significantly by city and neighborhood - the table above shows the most affordable ZIP codes in Iowa.
What is the most affordable city in Iowa?
The most affordable ZIP codes in Iowa are ranked in the table above by median rent. Smaller cities and suburbs typically offer significantly lower costs than the major metro areas. Click any ZIP code to see its full neighborhood profile.