Average Rent in Lyon County, IA↑ Rents rising 1.7% YoY🔻 4th cheapest in IA
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 12,087
Market Overview
Lyon County, IA has rental prices ranging from $646/month to $1,170/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $728/month — 48% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $72,881/year, spending $728/month on a 1-bedroom represents 12% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Lyon County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $877/month, Lyon County ranks #91 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Iowa — more affordable than 82% of all US cities in our data.
The Lyon County Rental Market
The Lyon County, IA area has a population of about 12,087 and 17% 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 Lyon 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 Lyon County, IA without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $29,120. The local median household income of $72,881 exceeds that threshold by $43,761, making Lyon County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Lyon County, IA has an unemployment rate of 2.4%, 1.5 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 Lyon 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 Lyon County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Lyon County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Lyon 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 Lyon CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in IASee how Lyon County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Lyon CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋IA Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections