Average Rent in Tama County, IA↑ Rents rising 2.0% YoY

Tama County, IA has rental prices ranging from $674/month to $1,332/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $697/month — 50% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $67,955/year, spending $697/month on a 1-bedroom represents 12% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Tama County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $915/month, Tama County ranks #30 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Iowa — more affordable than 66% of all US cities in our data.

The Tama County Rental Market

The Tama County, IA area has a population of about 16,982 and 24% 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 Tama County, IA have risen by $18/month (2.0%) over the past year, from $897 to $915. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Tama County, IA without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $27,880. The local median household income of $67,955 exceeds that threshold by $40,075, making Tama County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Tama County, IA has an unemployment rate of 4.3%, 0.4 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.

Is Tama County, IA Affordable?

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

Rent or Buy in Tama County?

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

Living in Tama County

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