Dubuque, IA

Very Low · 66

Iowa · Population 59,271 · Updated March 2026

$943
Median Rent / Month
$64,985
Median Income
$193,100
Median Home Value
$1,008
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Dubuque

17.4%
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

$11,316
Annual Rent
$3,704
State Income Tax
$3,032
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Dubuque is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 66 (where 100 equals the national median), Dubuque residents can expect to pay median rent of $943/month while earning a median household income of $64,985/year.

The median home value in Dubuque, IA is $193,100, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,008 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 17.4% 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 Dubuque.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Dubuque

What is the cost of living in Dubuque, IA?
The cost of living index in Dubuque, IA is 66 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $943, median household income is $64,985/year, and the median home value is $193,100.
Is Dubuque, IA affordable?
Yes, Dubuque is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 66. The rent-to-income ratio is 17.4%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Dubuque, IA?
The median gross rent in Dubuque, IA is $943 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $11,316.
What is the median household income in Dubuque?
The median household income in Dubuque, IA is $64,985 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%.