Average Rent in Howard County, IA↑ Rents rising 1.7% YoY🔻 4th cheapest in IA

Howard County, IA has rental prices ranging from $646/month to $1,382/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $792/month — 43% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $67,336/year, spending $792/month on a 1-bedroom represents 14% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Howard County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $877/month, Howard County ranks #91 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Iowa — more affordable than 82% of all US cities in our data.

The Howard County Rental Market

The Howard County, IA area has a population of about 9,459 and 23% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Howard County, IA have risen by $15/month (1.7%) over the past year, from $862 to $877. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Howard County, IA without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $31,680. The local median household income of $67,336 exceeds that threshold by $35,656, making Howard County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Howard County, IA has an unemployment rate of 2.9%, 1.0 percentage point below the national average of 3.9%. Strong employment conditions typically sustain rental demand, as workers relocate to the area and local residents maintain stable housing.

Is Howard County, IA Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Rent or Buy in Howard County?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Living in Howard County

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.