Cost of Living in Polk County, IA

What does it cost to live in Polk County? Income, housing, and affordability breakdown.

Median Income

$78,827

Median Rent

$1,060/mo

Median Home

$232,000

Affordability

411

Housing Cost Breakdown

Owning (20% down, 6.5%)

Mortgage (P&I)$1,173
Property Tax$350
Insurance$77

Total Monthly$1,600
% of Income24.4%

Renting

Median Rent$1,060
Renter's Insurance$25

Total Monthly$1,085
% of Income16.1%

Living in Polk County, Iowa

Polk County has a median household income of $78,827 with housing costs that represent 24.4% of income for owners and 16.1% for renters. Housing costs are within the recommended 30% of income threshold.

The affordability index of 411 (100 = median income perfectly covers median housing costs) gives a quick snapshot. Use our calculator for a comprehensive comparison across counties, including taxes, utilities, healthcare, and commute costs.

Compare Cost of Living Across Counties

Enter two locations and get a side-by-side comparison of housing, taxes, utilities, transportation, and overall affordability with salary adjustment calculations.

Start Free Comparison

Other Counties in Iowa

County-level data from U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 2022 5-Year Estimates. Additional sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Bureau of Economic Analysis. Estimates are county-level medians. This is not financial advice.