Cost of Living in Rutland, IA

With a cost of living index of 59, Rutland, IA is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 41% cheaper than the national average and 12% below the Iowa state average of 71. Rutland is a small community of 130 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Rutland's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $775 (41% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $50,800 (83% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 0.6x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Rutland is $82,895, which is 10% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 11% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Rutland. The area sees an average annual temperature of 44.6°F, with summers averaging 69°F and winters around 18°F. Annual rainfall totals 29.3 inches spread over roughly 106 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.