Average Rent in Jones County, IA↑ Rents rising 1.7% YoY🔻 4th cheapest in IA
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 20,799
Market Overview
Jones County, IA has rental prices ranging from $601/month to $1,163/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $696/month — 50% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $73,071/year, spending $696/month on a 1-bedroom represents 11% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Jones County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $877/month, Jones County ranks #91 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Iowa — more affordable than 82% of all US cities in our data.
The Jones County Rental Market
The Jones County, IA area has a population of about 20,799 and 19% 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 Jones 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 Jones County, IA without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $27,840. The local median household income of $73,071 exceeds that threshold by $45,231, making Jones County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Jones County, IA has an unemployment rate of 3.4%, 0.5 percentage points 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.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Jones County, IA Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in IAlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Omaha | $990 | $1,052 | $1,261 | $1,675 | — |
| Jasper County | $707 | $711 | $920 | $1,265 | — |
| Des Moines | $954 | $1,017 | $1,216 | $1,632 | — |
| Cedar Rapids | $681 | $757 | $993 | $1,391 | — |
| Iowa City | $816 | $921 | $1,105 | $1,548 | — |
| Waterloo | $684 | $760 | $997 | $1,301 | — |
Rent or Buy in Jones County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Jones County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Jones County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Jones CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in IASee how Jones County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Jones CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋IA Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections