Johnston, IA

Average · 101

Iowa · Population 24,196 · Updated March 2026

$1,288
Median Rent / Month
$103,430
Median Income
$346,200
Median Home Value
$1,495
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Johnston

14.9%
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

$15,456
Annual Rent
$5,896
State Income Tax
$5,435
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Johnston has a cost of living close to the national average, offering a balanced mix of expenses and amenities. With a cost index of 101 (where 100 equals the national median), Johnston residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,288/month while earning a median household income of $103,430/year.

The median home value in Johnston, IA is $346,200, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,495 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 14.9% 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 Johnston.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Johnston

What is the cost of living in Johnston, IA?
The cost of living index in Johnston, IA is 101 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,288, median household income is $103,430/year, and the median home value is $346,200.
Is Johnston, IA affordable?
No, Johnston is more expensive than the national average with a cost index of 101. The rent-to-income ratio is 14.9%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Johnston, IA?
The median gross rent in Johnston, IA is $1,288 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $15,456.
What is the median household income in Johnston?
The median household income in Johnston, IA is $103,430 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%.