Cost of Living in Boone, IA
Population 12,445 · Iowa · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Buyers in Boone can reasonably expect a home to cost less than three years of household income — $156,000 against $67,269 in typical earnings — a ratio that has collapsed to 5:1 or worse in much of the country. An unemployment rate of 1.7% points to a labor market well on the tight side of the national distribution.
Geographically, Boone is about 35 miles northwest of Des Moines, the nearest large metro. Median home values run roughly 15% lower than Des Moines' $184,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Boone
The median home value in Boone is $156,400 — 49% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $791/month, 40% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $67,269/year is 10% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 1.7%, below the national average of 4.8%. Iowa's top state income tax rate is 5.7% and the combined sales tax is 6.9%. Overall, Boone has a cost of living index of 55 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 45% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Boone, IA?
Boone has a cost index of 55 (100 = national average). It is 45% below the national average.
What is average rent in Boone, IA?
The median gross rent in Boone is $791 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Boone?
The median home value in Boone is $156,400 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Boone?
The median household income in Boone is $67,269 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Boone, IA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Boone is 6.9%. The Iowa state income tax top rate is 5.7%.
Is Boone, IA affordable?
Yes, Boone is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 55 — about 45% below the US national average of 100.
Boone at a Glance
- Population
- 12,445
- Median Income
- $67,269
- Home Value
- $156,400
- Median Rent
- $791/mo
- Unemployment
- 1.7%
- Sales Tax
- 6.9%
Explore county-level cost of living data
Iowa Rankings
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