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Cost of Living in Wapello County

Is it better to rent or buy in Wapello County? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

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Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$66,798
$947/mo

Median in area: $947

$131,462

Median in area: $131,462

$26,292

If you Rent

🔑
$1,196 /mo
Base Rent$947
Est. Utilities$249
% of Income21.5%
Pre-tax Residual$4,371

If you Buy

🏠
$1,181 /mo
P&I (7.276%)$719
Taxes & Ins$213
Est. Utilities$249
% of Income21.2%
Pre-tax Residual$4,385

Compare Nearby Areas

See how Wapello County stacks up against neighboring areas.

countyMahaska County, IA
$782/mo
countyKeokuk County, IA
$802/mo
countyMonroe County, IA
$804/mo
countyJefferson County, IA
$870/mo
countyDavis County, IA
$873/mo

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Wapello County?›

Based on median housing data, buying is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Wapello County. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,196, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $1,181 per month (a difference of $15).

How much do utilities cost in Wapello County?›

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Wapello County is approximately $249. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Wapello County?›

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Wapello County without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $47,840 per year.