Buena Vista County, Iowa
Income Data
At a Glance
How Buena Vista County Compares
Detailed Income Statistics
Data Story
About Household Income in Buena Vista County, Iowa
Below U.S. median, but resilient
Buena Vista County's median household income of $66,564 falls 11% short of the national median of $74,755. Agricultural dependence and smaller employer base characterize the local economy, typical of rural Iowa counties.
Among Iowa's lower-income counties
At $66,564, Buena Vista trails Iowa's state median of $69,830 by about $3,300 per household. The county ranks in the lower half statewide, reflecting challenges common to grain-dependent rural regions.
Struggles alongside similar rural counties
Buena Vista ($66,564) earns similarly to Calhoun ($66,875) but well below Cedar County ($79,080) and Buchanan ($78,430). Cass County ($61,657) ranks lower, suggesting economic pressures spread across northwest Iowa.
Housing costs pinch harder here
Buena Vista's rent-to-income ratio of 15.1% is notably higher than the national benchmark, meaning renters dedicate a larger share of earnings to housing. With a median home value of $146,900, homeownership is cheaper than renting locally—a common pattern in agricultural counties.
Strategic planning essential here
Lower median incomes demand disciplined financial planning, including employer retirement plans and low-cost investment options. Buena Vista households should prioritize debt reduction and seek skill-building opportunities tied to higher-wage sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Compare RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.