Council Bluffs, IA

Very Low · 64

Iowa · Population 62,564 · Updated March 2026

$980
Median Rent / Month
$64,092
Median Income
$164,300
Median Home Value
$1,053
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Council Bluffs

18.3%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in Iowa

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

5.7%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
6.0%
Sales Tax
1.57%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$11,760
Annual Rent
$3,653
State Income Tax
$2,580
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Council Bluffs is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 64 (where 100 equals the national median), Council Bluffs residents can expect to pay median rent of $980/month while earning a median household income of $64,092/year.

The median home value in Council Bluffs, IA is $164,300, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,053 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 18.3% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

Iowa has a moderate income tax rate of 5.7%. Combined with a 6.0% sales tax rate and 1.57% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Council Bluffs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Council Bluffs

What is the cost of living in Council Bluffs, IA?
The cost of living index in Council Bluffs, IA is 64 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $980, median household income is $64,092/year, and the median home value is $164,300.
Is Council Bluffs, IA affordable?
Yes, Council Bluffs is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 64. The rent-to-income ratio is 18.3%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Council Bluffs, IA?
The median gross rent in Council Bluffs, IA is $980 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $11,760.
What is the median household income in Council Bluffs?
The median household income in Council Bluffs, IA is $64,092 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Iowa?
Iowa has a top income tax rate of 5.7%, a sales tax of 6.0%, and an effective property tax rate of 1.57%.