Urbandale, IA

Average · 95

Iowa · Population 46,026 · Updated March 2026

$1,176
Median Rent / Month
$113,086
Median Income
$318,800
Median Home Value
$1,505
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Urbandale

12.5%
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

$14,112
Annual Rent
$6,446
State Income Tax
$5,005
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Urbandale has a cost of living close to the national average, offering a balanced mix of expenses and amenities. With a cost index of 95 (where 100 equals the national median), Urbandale residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,176/month while earning a median household income of $113,086/year.

The median home value in Urbandale, IA is $318,800, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,505 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 12.5% 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 Urbandale.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Urbandale

What is the cost of living in Urbandale, IA?
The cost of living index in Urbandale, IA is 95 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,176, median household income is $113,086/year, and the median home value is $318,800.
Is Urbandale, IA affordable?
Yes, Urbandale is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 95. The rent-to-income ratio is 12.5%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Urbandale, IA?
The median gross rent in Urbandale, IA is $1,176 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $14,112.
What is the median household income in Urbandale?
The median household income in Urbandale, IA is $113,086 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%.