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

Union County, IA has rental prices ranging from $646/month to $1,163/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $668/month — 52% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $56,813/year, spending $668/month on a 1-bedroom represents 14% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Union County Compares

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

The Union County Rental Market

The Union County, IA area has a population of about 12,038 and 28% 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 Union 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 Union County, IA without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $26,720. The local median household income of $56,813 exceeds that threshold by $30,093, making Union County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Union County, IA has an unemployment rate of 3.5%, 0.4 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.

Is Union County, IA Affordable?

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

Rent or Buy in Union County?

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

Living in Union County

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