Average Rent in Washington County, IA↓ Rents falling 1.3% YoY
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 22,539
Market Overview
Washington County, IA has rental prices ranging from $662/month to $1,173/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $674/month — 52% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $71,339/year, spending $674/month on a 1-bedroom represents 11% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Washington County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $882/month, Washington County ranks #35 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Iowa — more affordable than 79% of all US cities in our data.
The Washington County Rental Market
The Washington County, IA area has a population of about 22,539 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 Washington County, IA have fallen by $12/month (1.3%) over the past year, from $894 to $882. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Washington County, IA without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $26,960. The local median household income of $71,339 exceeds that threshold by $44,379, making Washington County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Washington County, IA has an unemployment rate of 2.7%, 1.2 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 Washington 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 Washington County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Washington County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Washington 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 Washington CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in IASee how Washington County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Washington CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋IA Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections