Average Rent in Plymouth County, IA↑ Rents rising 4.4% YoY
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 25,699
Market Overview
Plymouth County, IA has rental prices ranging from $672/month to $1,260/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $730/month — 48% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $81,600/year, spending $730/month on a 1-bedroom represents 11% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Plymouth County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $900/month, Plymouth County ranks #32 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Iowa — more affordable than 75% of all US cities in our data.
The Plymouth County Rental Market
The Plymouth County, IA area has a population of about 25,699 and 26% 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 Plymouth County, IA have risen by $38/month (4.4%) over the past year, from $862 to $900. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Plymouth County, IA without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $29,200. The local median household income of $81,600 exceeds that threshold by $52,400, making Plymouth County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Plymouth County, IA has an unemployment rate of 2.8%, 1.1 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 Plymouth 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 Plymouth County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Plymouth County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Plymouth 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 Plymouth CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in IASee how Plymouth County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Plymouth CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋IA Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections