Average Rent in Jefferson County, IA↑ Rents rising 5.7% YoY🔺 8th priciest in IA

Jefferson County, IA has rental prices ranging from $781/month to $1,368/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $787/month — 44% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $56,824/year, spending $787/month on a 1-bedroom represents 17% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Jefferson County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,032/month, Jefferson County ranks #8 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Iowa — pricier than 68% of all US cities in our data.

The Jefferson County Rental Market

The Jefferson County, IA area has a population of about 15,676 and 35% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Jefferson County, IA have risen by $56/month (5.7%) over the past year, from $976 to $1,032. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Jefferson County, IA without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $31,480. The local median household income of $56,824 exceeds that threshold by $25,344, making Jefferson County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Jefferson 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.

Is Jefferson County, IA Affordable?

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

Rent or Buy in Jefferson County?

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

Living in Jefferson County

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