Average Rent in Franklin County, IA↑ Rents rising 1.7% YoY🔻 4th cheapest in IA
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 9,977
Market Overview
Franklin County, IA has rental prices ranging from $646/month to $1,450/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 $63,648/year, spending $668/month on a 1-bedroom represents 13% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Franklin County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $877/month, Franklin County ranks #91 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Iowa — more affordable than 82% of all US cities in our data.
The Franklin County Rental Market
The Franklin County, IA area has a population of about 9,977 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 Franklin 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 Franklin 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 $63,648 exceeds that threshold by $36,928, making Franklin County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Franklin County, IA has an unemployment rate of 3.6%, 0.3 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 Franklin 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 Franklin County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Franklin County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Franklin 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 Franklin CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in IASee how Franklin County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Franklin CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋IA Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections