Affordable

What Salary Do You Need to Live in State Center?

To afford a 2-bedroom in State Center, you need to earn at least $34,040/year based on estimated fair market rent data. The median household income here is $81,250, which means the typical resident is $47,210 above the threshold.

Census ACS Data Pop. 1,654

Salary Required by Bedroom Size

Bedroom	Monthly Rent	Monthly Income	Annual Salary	vs. Median
Studio	$596	$1,987	$23,840	$-57,410
1 Bedroom	$706	$2,353	$28,240	$-53,010
2 Bedroom BENCHMARK	$851	$2,837	$34,040	$-47,210
3 Bedroom	$1,038	$3,460	$41,520	$-39,730
4 Bedroom	$1,277	$4,257	$51,080	$-30,170

Affordability Breakdown

Where the required salary line crosses above State Center's median income — housing becomes unaffordable for the typical resident.

Required Salary Median Income

Income vs. Rent Snapshot

Median Income

$81,250

Annual household

2BR Required Salary

$34,040

Under 30% rule

Income Gap

+$47,210

Surplus

Verdict

Affordable

Ratio: 12.6%

The 30% Rule Calculator

Enter your annual salary to see what you can afford in State Center

Your Annual Salary

Pre-filled with State Center's median household income

Max monthly rent you can afford$2,031

Studio

$596/mo

1 BR

$706/mo

2 BR

$851/mo

3 BR

$1,038/mo

4 BR

$1,277/mo

Your salary is $0 above the median income in State Center.

Salary Comparison by Bedroom

Bars left of the marker line are affordable for State Center's median earner. Bars to the right require above-median income.

Affordable Above Median Median Income

What This Means If You're Moving to State Center

State Center, Iowa stands out as one of the more financially accessible housing markets in the state. The median household income of $81,250 significantly exceeds the $34,040 needed to comfortably afford a 2-bedroom at 30% of gross income — leaving a $47,210 annual surplus for savings, debt repayment, or lifestyle spending.

For remote workers or relocators evaluating State Center, a studio at $596/month offers an even more aggressive savings rate. Even a 3-bedroom at $1,038/month remains accessible for dual-income households earning above $41,520.

To live comfortably with room for non-housing expenses, a break-even salary of approximately $51,060 would position you well — though many residents in State Center manage on less given the favorable rent-to-income dynamics.

Economic Outlook

Local Job Market & Housing Dynamics

Affording rent isn't just about housing prices—it's heavily dependent on local employment opportunities and the strength of the job market in State Center, Iowa.

With a total population of 1,654, the city supports an active civilian workforce of 871 people. A strong employment base often indicates a stable economy, which is crucial when committing to a lease requiring a $34,040 annual salary. The ratio of employed residents to the total population provides insight into the local economic health and competition for both jobs and housing.

Employed Workforce

871

Active civilian employees in State Center

Frequently Asked Questions About Renting in State Center

What salary do I need to live in State Center, Iowa?

To afford a 2-bedroom in State Center under the 30% rule, you need an annual salary of at least $34,040. The median household income in State Center is $81,250.

Can I afford a 2-bedroom in State Center on $81,250?

The affordability verdict for State Center is "Affordable". The rent-to-income ratio is 12.6%, meaning median earners have a $47,210 surplus.

What is the average rent in State Center compared to median income?

The median gross rent in State Center is $706/month. With a median household income of $81,250, residents spend approximately 12.6% of their income on rent.

What salary do I need for a studio in State Center?

A studio in State Center rents for approximately $596/month. Under the 30% rule, you need an annual salary of $23,840 to afford this.

Is State Center considered an affordable place to live?

Based on the surplus of $47,210 and an affordability verdict of "Affordable", State Center is considered a affordable rental market when comparing the required 2-bedroom salary of $34,040 to the local median household income.

How State Center Compares

Other cities in Iowa with salary requirements