Mason, IA

Very Low · 54

Iowa · Population 27,135 · Updated March 2026

$874
Median Rent / Month
$62,369
Median Income
$130,000
Median Home Value
$868
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Mason

16.8%
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

$10,488
Annual Rent
$3,555
State Income Tax
$2,041
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Mason is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 54 (where 100 equals the national median), Mason residents can expect to pay median rent of $874/month while earning a median household income of $62,369/year.

The median home value in Mason, IA is $130,000, with typical monthly owner costs around $868 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 16.8% 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 Mason.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Mason

What is the cost of living in Mason, IA?
The cost of living index in Mason, IA is 54 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $874, median household income is $62,369/year, and the median home value is $130,000.
Is Mason, IA affordable?
Yes, Mason is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 54. The rent-to-income ratio is 16.8%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Mason, IA?
The median gross rent in Mason, IA is $874 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $10,488.
What is the median household income in Mason?
The median household income in Mason, IA is $62,369 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%.