Average mortgage payment in Polk County, IA (2026)
The average mortgage payment in Polk County on a median-priced home (~$235,000) is roughly $2,054/month — assuming 10% down at a 6.85% 30-year fixed rate and Iowa's 1.57% effective property tax rate (full PITI).
To carry that payment under the standard 28% front-end DTI rule, you'd need an annual household income near $88,043. County population is roughly 492,401.
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How Polk County compares to Iowa
The typical home in Polk County is 9% above the statewide median of $215,000 in Iowa. Property tax is set at the state's effective rate of 1.57% — local millage and special assessments vary by county, but this is the right starting point.
The payment above bakes in principal, interest, property tax, and homeowners insurance — it does not include HOA dues or mortgage insurance (PMI). PMI kicks in automatically when down payment is below 20% on a conventional loan. For a full breakdown, run your own numbers in the main calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average mortgage payment in Polk County?+
On a median Polk County home (~$235,000) at a 6.85% 30-year fixed rate with 10% down, all-in PITI runs about $2,054/month, including ~$307 in property tax.
What income do I need to buy a home in Polk County?+
Using the 28% front-end DTI rule, you'd need roughly $88,043 in annual gross household income to comfortably carry the median Polk County home.
How does Polk County compare to the rest of Iowa?+
Polk County's median home ($235,000) is 9% above the Iowa median of $215,000.
Does this include HOA fees or PMI?+
No. HOA dues vary too widely to assume a default — add them directly to the payment. PMI applies when you put less than 20% down on a conventional loan; the main calculator factors it in automatically.