Cost of Living in Waterloo, IA
Population: 66,947 • 2026 Data
$56,344
Median Household Income
-27% vs national
$896
Median Monthly Rent
-34% vs national
$150,200
Median Home Value
-56% vs national
6.4%
Unemployment Rate
Housing in Waterloo
The median home value in Waterloo, IA is $150,200. Monthly rent for a typical unit averages $896, while total monthly housing costs (including utilities and insurance) average $916.
Rent-to-income ratio: 19.1%. This is within the recommended 30% threshold, suggesting housing is relatively affordable for median-income earners.
Income and Employment
The median household income in Waterloo, IA is $56,344. The unemployment rate stands at 6.4%, with a labor force of 34,480 people.
Data Sources
All data from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. National median figures used for comparison context.