Renting · Section 8
Data from November 2026
Renting in Polk County, Iowa
Polk County has a HUD fair market rent of $1,360 a month for 2 bedrooms (Fiscal year 2027). Renter households here pay a typical rent of $1,149 a month (Average 2020–2024). Paying the fair market rent without going over 30% of income takes $26.15 an hour, full time.
Four numbers to start with
- Fair market rent, 2 bedrooms
- $1,360
- a month, HUD, Fiscal year 2027
- 22% more than in Iowa
- Typical rent
- $1,149
- a month, Census, Average 2020–2024
- 18% more than in Iowa
- Wage needed
- $26.15
- an hour, 2 bedrooms
- Or $54,400 a year, to spend no more than 30% of income on rent.
- Rent-burdened households
- 46%
- spend 30% or more of income on rent
- 5% more than in Iowa
Only here
Renting in Polk County: what sets it apart
What this place has that others do not, from public data, most unusual first.
-
Polk County has the 2nd highest typical rent of the 99 counties in Iowa ($1,149).
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Polk County has the 4th lowest homeownership rate of the 99 counties in Iowa (67%).
-
Among the neighboring counties, Jasper County has the lowest typical rent ($836), 27% below the $1,149 in Polk County.
-
Polk County has the 9th highest typical household income of the 99 counties in Iowa ($83,576).
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (Average 2020–2024).
Fair market rent
What HUD sets for each size
Every year HUD (the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) publishes a Fair Market Rent (FMR) for each home size in Polk County. It is used to work out how much a Section 8 voucher covers. The table shows what you need to earn to pay it without spending more than 30% of income.
The fair market rent covers rent plus basic utilities, except the phone. HUD generally sets it at the 40th percentile: 4 in 10 standard-quality homes rented recently cost less. 24 CFR §888.113(a)
According to Zillow (ZORI), the typical asking rent in Polk County was $1,220 a month in September 2026: 1.5% more than 12 months ago. It is an index of market listings, not a HUD limit. Zillow data
| Size | Fair rent per month | Hourly wage | Income needed per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,102 | $21.19 | $44,080 |
| 1 bedroom | $1,145 | $22.02 | $45,800 |
| 2 bedrooms | $1,360 | $26.15 | $54,400 |
| 3 bedrooms | $1,856 | $35.69 | $74,240 |
| 4 bedrooms | $1,901 | $36.56 | $76,040 |
HUD area: Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA HUD Metro FMR Area. Source: HUD, Fiscal year 2027
By ZIP code
The fair market rent for your ZIP code
HUD also publishes fair market rents by ZIP code (Small Area FMRs) for 43 ZIP codes in Polk County (Fiscal year 2027). Type yours to see it.
For 2 bedrooms they run from $930 in 50226 to $1,690 in 50021. 11 ZIP codes are above the county's fair market rent ($1,360).
Where HUD designates these areas, or where the housing agency chooses to use them, the voucher is figured on the ZIP code's rent instead of the county's. Ask your agency which one it uses. 24 CFR §982.503(a)(1)
| 50007 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $980 | $1,020 | $1,180 | $1,620 | $1,830 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50009 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,170 | $1,210 | $1,440 | $1,970 | $2,010 |
| 50021 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,370 | $1,420 | $1,690 | $2,310 | $2,360 |
| 50023 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,180 | $1,230 | $1,460 | $1,990 | $2,040 |
| 50032 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,160 | $1,200 | $1,430 | $1,950 | $1,990 |
| 50035 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,130 | $1,180 | $1,400 | $1,910 | $1,960 |
| 50073 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,100 | $1,150 | $1,340 | $1,840 | $1,980 |
| 50109 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $910 | $940 | $1,120 | $1,530 | $1,570 |
| 50111 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,120 | $1,160 | $1,380 | $1,880 | $1,930 |
| 50131 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,250 | $1,300 | $1,540 | $2,100 | $2,150 |
| 50161 | Ames, IA | $830 | $880 | $1,000 | $1,380 | $1,610 |
| 50161 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $830 | $880 | $1,000 | $1,380 | $1,610 |
| 50161 | Jasper County, IA | $830 | $880 | $1,000 | $1,380 | $1,610 |
| 50169 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $770 | $800 | $960 | $1,300 | $1,340 |
| 50169 | Jasper County, IA | $770 | $800 | $960 | $1,300 | $1,340 |
| 50226 | Ames, IA | $750 | $790 | $930 | $1,270 | $1,300 |
| 50226 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $750 | $790 | $930 | $1,270 | $1,300 |
| 50237 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $750 | $780 | $930 | $1,260 | $1,300 |
| 50237 | Jasper County, IA | $750 | $780 | $930 | $1,260 | $1,300 |
| 50237 | Marion County, IA | $750 | $780 | $930 | $1,260 | $1,300 |
| 50243 | Ames, IA | $1,060 | $1,110 | $1,300 | $1,780 | $1,940 |
| 50243 | Boone County, IA | $1,060 | $1,110 | $1,300 | $1,780 | $1,940 |
| 50243 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,060 | $1,110 | $1,300 | $1,780 | $1,940 |
| 50244 | Ames, IA | $780 | $820 | $930 | $1,280 | $1,520 |
| 50244 | Boone County, IA | $780 | $820 | $930 | $1,280 | $1,520 |
| 50244 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $780 | $820 | $930 | $1,280 | $1,520 |
| 50265 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,070 | $1,110 | $1,320 | $1,800 | $1,850 |
| 50309 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,160 | $1,200 | $1,430 | $1,950 | $2,000 |
| 50310 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,030 | $1,070 | $1,270 | $1,730 | $1,780 |
| 50311 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $970 | $1,010 | $1,200 | $1,640 | $1,680 |
| 50312 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,020 | $1,060 | $1,260 | $1,720 | $1,760 |
| 50313 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,050 | $1,090 | $1,290 | $1,760 | $1,800 |
| 50314 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $940 | $980 | $1,160 | $1,580 | $1,620 |
| 50315 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,050 | $1,090 | $1,290 | $1,760 | $1,800 |
| 50316 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $960 | $990 | $1,180 | $1,610 | $1,650 |
| 50317 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,020 | $1,060 | $1,260 | $1,720 | $1,760 |
| 50319 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,090 | $1,130 | $1,340 | $1,830 | $1,870 |
| 50320 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,070 | $1,110 | $1,320 | $1,800 | $1,850 |
| 50321 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,080 | $1,120 | $1,330 | $1,820 | $1,860 |
| 50322 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,130 | $1,180 | $1,400 | $1,910 | $1,960 |
| 50324 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,300 | $1,360 | $1,610 | $2,200 | $2,250 |
| 50325 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,060 | $1,100 | $1,310 | $1,790 | $1,830 |
| 50327 | Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $1,170 | $1,210 | $1,440 | $1,970 | $2,010 |
- 50007 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,180$1,620
- 50009 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,440$1,970
- 50021 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,690$2,310
- 50023 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,460$1,990
- 50032 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,430$1,950
- 50035 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,400$1,910
- 50073 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,340$1,840
- 50109 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,120$1,530
- 50111 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,380$1,880
- 50131 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,540$2,100
- 50161 · Ames, IA $1,000$1,380
- 50161 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,000$1,380
- 50161 · Jasper County, IA $1,000$1,380
- 50169 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $960$1,300
- 50169 · Jasper County, IA $960$1,300
- 50226 · Ames, IA $930$1,270
- 50226 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $930$1,270
- 50237 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $930$1,260
- 50237 · Jasper County, IA $930$1,260
- 50237 · Marion County, IA $930$1,260
- 50243 · Ames, IA $1,300$1,780
- 50243 · Boone County, IA $1,300$1,780
- 50243 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,300$1,780
- 50244 · Ames, IA $930$1,280
- 50244 · Boone County, IA $930$1,280
- 50244 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $930$1,280
- 50265 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,320$1,800
- 50309 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,430$1,950
- 50310 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,270$1,730
- 50311 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,200$1,640
- 50312 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,260$1,720
- 50313 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,290$1,760
- 50314 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,160$1,580
- 50315 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,290$1,760
- 50316 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,180$1,610
- 50317 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,260$1,720
- 50319 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,340$1,830
- 50320 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,320$1,800
- 50321 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,330$1,820
- 50322 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,400$1,910
- 50324 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,610$2,200
- 50325 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,310$1,790
- 50327 · Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA $1,440$1,970
Source: Small Area Fair Market Rents (HUD) Fiscal year 2027 Small Area Fair Market Rents (HUD) (external site)
Rent burden
How many households spend too much
HUD counts rent as a burden when it reaches 30% of income or more. In Polk County, 46% of renter households are in that position; in Iowa, 44%, and nationwide, 51% (Average 2020–2024, Census).
Paying too much rent leaves little for food, transportation and savings. If that is you, the agencies below can guide you for free.
46%
of renter households spend 30% or more of their income on rent.
67,049 households rent in Polk County
- Spend half or more of their income 20%
- Spend 30% or more, but less than half 26%
- Spend less than 30% 54%
Compared with the state and the country
- Polk 46%
- Iowa 44%
- United States 51%
Low-income apartments
Low-income apartments in Polk County
HUD lists 138 properties with homes for low-income households in Polk County: tax-credit apartments (LIHTC), HUD-assisted buildings and public housing. They run from the most low-income homes to the fewest.
- with tax credits (LIHTC)
- 114
- HUD-assisted
- 26
- public housing
- 3
8,798 homes in all; 7,771 of them low-income, according to HUD.
- Oakview Terrace Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 3211 30th St, Des Moines 50310 233 homes, 232 low-income · Studio: 24 · 1 bd: 59 · 2 bd: 147 · 3 bd: 2 · In service since 2009 · For families
- Royal View Manor Public housing 1101 Crocker St, Des Moines 50309 200 low-income homes · Run by Des Moines Municipal Housing Agency · Average payment: $297 a month · Average wait: 14 months · (515) 323-8950
- Eastview Manor Public housing 3700 E 31st St, Des Moines 50317 190 low-income homes · Run by Des Moines Municipal Housing Agency · Average payment: $396 a month · Average wait: 9 months · (515) 323-8950
- Elsie Mason Manor Tax credit (LIHTC) · HUD-assisted 430 Grand Ave, Des Moines 50309 150 low-income homes · 1 bd: 150 · In service since 2014 · For older adults · (515) 243-8759
- Homes of Oakridge I Tax credit (LIHTC) 926 Oakridge Dr, Des Moines 50314 150 low-income homes · Studio: 9 · 1 bd: 21 · 2 bd: 48 · 3 bd: 68 · 4 bd: 4 · In service since 2010 · For families
- Homes of Oakridge II Tax credit (LIHTC) 923 Oakridge DR, Des Moines 50314 150 low-income homes · Studio: 20 · 1 bd: 30 · 2 bd: 50 · 3 bd: 49 · 4 bd: 2 · In service since 2010 · For families
- Oakridge Neighborhood (DMACC) HUD-assisted 926 Oakridge Dr, Des Moines 50314 150 low-income homes · For families · (515) 244-7702
- Oakridge Neighborhood (homes of Oakridge) HUD-assisted 926 Oakridge Dr, Des Moines 50314 150 low-income homes · For families · (515) 244-7702
- Southridge Senior Residences Tax credit (LIHTC) · HUD-assisted 1100 Cummins Rd, Des Moines 50315 197 homes, 141 low-income · 1 bd: 56 · In service since 1995 · For older adults · (515) 287-4422
- YMCA Supportive Housing Tax credit (LIHTC) 2 SW 9th St, Des Moines 50309 140 low-income homes · Studio: 140 · In service since 2011 · For families
- Ligutti Tower Tax credit (LIHTC) · HUD-assisted 555 5th Ave, Des Moines 50309 139 low-income homes · Studio: 35 · 1 bd: 104 · In service since 2015 · For older adults · (515) 243-8759
- Country Club Village Project Tax credit (LIHTC) 1200 Office Park Rd, West Des Moines 50265 294 homes, 122 low-income · 1 bd: 102 · 2 bd: 186 · 3 bd: 6 · In service since 2007 · For families
- Crosswinds Tax credit (LIHTC) 1632 Hull Ave, Des Moines 50313 120 homes, 119 low-income · 1 bd: 5 · 2 bd: 100 · 3 bd: 15 · In service since 2012 · For families
- Wakonda Manor HUD-assisted 1800 Watrous Ave, Des Moines 50315 110 low-income homes · For older adults · (515) 287-3210
- Stone Crest HUD-assisted 3330 E 25th St, Des Moines 50317 108 low-income homes · For older adults · (515) 265-2172
- Plymouth Place Tax credit (LIHTC) 4111 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines 50312 131 homes, 106 low-income · Studio: 10 · 1 bd: 121 · 3 bd: 10 · In service since 2014 · For older adults
- Valley West Apartments HUD-assisted 1800 36th St, West Des Moines 50266 105 low-income homes · For older adults · (515) 223-0084
- River Hills Apartments #2 HUD-assisted 916 E 6th St, Des Moines 50316 171 homes, 102 low-income · For families · (515) 288-2159
- Centennial Place I Tax credit (LIHTC) 720 8th St SE, Altoona 50009 96 low-income homes · 1 bd: 12 · 2 bd: 72 · 3 bd: 12 · In service since 1995
- Venbury Trail Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 900 8th St SW, Altoona 50009 96 low-income homes · 1 bd: 24 · 2 bd: 48 · 3 bd: 24 · In service since 1998 · For people with disabilities, families
- Parkwinds Tax credit (LIHTC) 3600 E Douglas Ave, Des Moines 50317 96 homes, 95 low-income · 1 bd: 12 · 2 bd: 72 · 3 bd: 12 · In service since 2012 · For families
- Chapel Ridge West II Tax credit (LIHTC) 210 S 41st St, West Des Moines 50265 95 homes, 94 low-income · 1 bd: 24 · 2 bd: 48 · 3 bd: 24 · In service since 2010 · For families
- Deer Ridge Apts I Tax credit (LIHTC) 6001 Creston Ave, Des Moines 50321 92 low-income homes · 1 bd: 24 · 2 bd: 44 · 3 bd: 24 · In service since 2000 · For people with disabilities, families
- Riverpoint Lofts Tax credit (LIHTC) 340 SW 7th St, Des Moines 50309 91 low-income homes · 1 bd: 55 · 2 bd: 36 · In service since 2011 · For families
- AHEPA 192-IV Apartments (202/221d4)RAD FOR PRAC HUD-assisted 6705 SE 5th St, Des Moines 50315 90 low-income homes · For older adults · (515) 214-1281
- Meadowlark Place Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 1120 SE 11th St, Grimes 50111 84 low-income homes · 1 bd: 18 · 2 bd: 48 · 3 bd: 18 · In service since 2013 · For families
- Melbourne Apts Phase I Tax credit (LIHTC) 5515 SE 14th St, Des Moines 50320 84 low-income homes · 1 bd: 23 · 2 bd: 49 · 3 bd: 12 · In service since 2010 · For families
- Jacobs Place HUD-assisted 2400 30th St, Des Moines 50310 82 low-income homes · For older adults · (515) 277-9272
- Logan Park Apartments HUD-assisted 1731 Cleveland Ave, Des Moines 50316 80 low-income homes · For older adults · (515) 262-3472
- Elmcrest Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 423 E Philip St, Des Moines 50315 78 low-income homes · In service since 1990
- Delaware Village Apts I Tax credit (LIHTC) 1000 Se Delaware Ave, Ankeny 50021 76 low-income homes · In service since 1994
- Legacy Park Tax credit (LIHTC) 1635 6th Ave, Des Moines 50314 76 low-income homes · 1 bd: 2 · 2 bd: 31 · 3 bd: 41 · 4 bd: 2 · In service since 2018 · For families
- Corinthian Gardens Tax credit (LIHTC) · HUD-assisted 1011 University Ave, Des Moines 50314 75 low-income homes · Studio: 9 · 1 bd: 66 · In service since 2018 · For older adults · (515) 280-3531
- Hubbell Tower Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 904 Walnut St, Des Moines 50309 73 low-income homes · 1 bd: 65 · 2 bd: 8 · In service since 2006 · For families
- Chapel Ridge West I Tax credit (LIHTC) 210 S 41st St, West Des Moines 50265 73 homes, 72 low-income · 1 bd: 18 · 2 bd: 36 · 3 bd: 18 · In service since 2009 · For families
- Canterbury Park III Tax credit (LIHTC) 700 NE 56th St, Pleasant Hill 50327 72 low-income homes · 1 bd: 18 · 2 bd: 36 · 3 bd: 18 · In service since 2008 · For families
- Deer Ridge Apts V Tax credit (LIHTC) 6000 Creston Ave, Des Moines 50321 72 low-income homes · 1 bd: 18 · 2 bd: 36 · 3 bd: 18 · In service since 2008 · For families
- Melbourne Apartments III Tax credit (LIHTC) 5515 SE 14th St, Des Moines 50320 72 low-income homes · 1 bd: 24 · 2 bd: 36 · In service since 2014
- Prairie Winds Tax credit (LIHTC) 2201 E Park Ave, Des Moines 50320 72 homes, 71 low-income · 2 bd: 72 · In service since 2012 · For families
- Pioneer Woods Tax credit (LIHTC) 2300 SE 17th Ct, Des Moines 50320 67 homes, 66 low-income · 1 bd: 12 · 2 bd: 40 · 3 bd: 12 · 4 bd: 2 · In service since 2007 · For families
- Rumely Lofts Tax credit (LIHTC) 104 SW 4th St, Des Moines 50309 66 low-income homes · 1 bd: 50 · 2 bd: 16 · In service since 2010 · For families
- Broadway Heights Apartments I Tax credit (LIHTC) 4282 E 50th St, Des Moines 50317 65 low-income homes · 1 bd: 12 · 2 bd: 35 · In service since 2014
- Hilltop II Tax credit (LIHTC) 3726 Hubbell Ave, Des Moines 50317 72 homes, 64 low-income · 1 bd: 12 · 2 bd: 36 · 3 bd: 12 · 4 bd: 12 · In service since 2020 · For families
- Melbourne IV 2018 Tax credit (LIHTC) 5515 SE 14th St, Des Moines 50320 72 homes, 64 low-income · 1 bd: 36 · 2 bd: 36 · In service since 2020 · For older adults
- The Rose of East Des Moines Tax credit (LIHTC) 1331 Idaho St, Des Moines 50316 64 low-income homes · 1 bd: 58 · 2 bd: 6 · In service since 2008 · For older adults
- Melbourne Apts Phase II Tax credit (LIHTC) 5515 SE 14th St, Des Moines 50320 62 low-income homes · 1 bd: 15 · 2 bd: 30 · 3 bd: 17 · In service since 2013 · For families
- Legacy Park Tax credit (LIHTC) 1635 6th Ave, Des Moines 50314 61 low-income homes · Studio: 6 · 2 bd: 10 · 3 bd: 45 · In service since 2018 · For families
- Ahepa 192 Apartments HUD-assisted 6190 NW 59th Ct, Johnston 50131 60 low-income homes · For older adults · (515) 276-6766
- Deer Ridge Apts IV Tax credit (LIHTC) 6009 Creston Ave, Des Moines 50321 60 low-income homes · 1 bd: 18 · 2 bd: 24 · 3 bd: 18 · In service since 2006 · For families
- East Des Moines Rehab Tax credit (LIHTC) 1441 Des Moines St, Des Moines 50316 60 low-income homes · 2 bd: 42 · 3 bd: 18 · In service since 2011 · For families
- Fort Des Moines Senior Housing Tax credit (LIHTC) 505 Army Post Rd, Des Moines 50315 60 low-income homes · 1 bd: 54 · 2 bd: 6 · In service since 2012 · For older adults
- The Crest at Baker Creek Tax credit (LIHTC) 4560 Hubbell Ave, Des Moines 50317 60 low-income homes · 1 bd: 7 · 2 bd: 10 · 3 bd: 37 · 4 bd: 6 · In service since 2013 · For families
- Walden Point Tax credit (LIHTC) 1200 4th St, Des Moines 50314 60 low-income homes · 1 bd: 56 · 2 bd: 4 · In service since 2006 · For older adults
- Oak Crossing Tax credit (LIHTC) 310 SE Gateway Dr, Grimes 50111 60 homes, 59 low-income · 1 bd: 15 · 2 bd: 17 · 3 bd: 28 · In service since 1999 · For older adults, people with disabilities
- Meadow Vista Parkside Tax credit (LIHTC) 2647 17th St SW, Altoona 50009 59 low-income homes · 3 bd: 15 · 4 bd: 44 · In service since 2012 · For families
- Southwinds Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) · HUD-assisted 1264 Cummins Rd, Des Moines 50315 60 homes, 58 low-income · 2 bd: 60 · In service since 2012 · For families · (515) 285-1879
- Willow Bend Apts I Tax credit (LIHTC) 6616 SW 9th St, Des Moines 50315 59 homes, 58 low-income · 1 bd: 15 · 2 bd: 44 · In service since 2010 · For families
- Park Winds Apartments HUD-assisted 3604 E Douglas Ave, Des Moines 50317 96 homes, 57 low-income · For families · (515) 265-2052
- Canterbury Heights Tax credit (LIHTC) 755 NE 56th St, Pleasant Hill 50327 62 homes, 55 low-income · 1 bd: 22 · 2 bd: 40 · In service since 2016 · For older adults
- Cornerstone Commons Tax credit (LIHTC) 6365 Merle Hay Rd, Johnston 50131 62 homes, 55 low-income · 1 bd: 29 · 2 bd: 33 · In service since 2013 · For older adults
- Hilltop Senior Tax credit (LIHTC) 3720 E Douglas Ave, Des Moines 50317 62 homes, 55 low-income · 1 bd: 20 · 2 bd: 42 · In service since 2015 · For older adults
- Crestview Terrace Tax credit (LIHTC) 916 Ashworth Rd, West Des Moines 50265 55 low-income homes · 1 bd: 40 · 2 bd: 15 · In service since 2011 · For older adults
- Parkside East Apts III Tax credit (LIHTC) 3560 E Douglas Ave, Des Moines 50317 54 low-income homes · 1 bd: 15 · 2 bd: 24 · 3 bd: 15 · In service since 2004 · For families
- National Biscuit Co Flats Tax credit (LIHTC) 1001 Cherry St, Des Moines 50309 54 homes, 53 low-income · Studio: 53 · In service since 1996
- Ahepa Penelope 38 Apartments HUD-assisted 717 NE 5th St, Ankeny 50021 53 low-income homes · For older adults · (515) 965-5987
- The Rose of Des Moines Tax credit (LIHTC) 1330 19th St, Des Moines 50314 52 low-income homes · 1 bd: 48 · 2 bd: 4 · In service since 2005 · For older adults
- East Village Square Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 333 E Grand Ave, Des Moines 50309 115 homes, 51 low-income · Studio: 6 · 1 bd: 84 · 2 bd: 25 · In service since 2006 · For families
- Ashbrooke Phase II Tax credit (LIHTC) 401 NE Delaware Ave, Ankeny 50021 62 homes, 50 low-income · In service since 1993
- MLK Crossing Senior Apartments Tax credit (LIHTC) 2455 Mlk Jr Pkwy, Des Moines 50310 56 homes, 50 low-income · 1 bd: 42 · 2 bd: 14 · In service since 2017 · For older adults
- Meadow Vista Senior Villas Tax credit (LIHTC) 1806 28th Ave SW, Altoona 50009 50 low-income homes · 2 bd: 50 · In service since 2012 · For older adults
- Canterbury Park Apts II Tax credit (LIHTC) 925 Sherrylynn Blvd, Pleasant Hill 50327 49 homes, 48 low-income · 1 bd: 12 · 2 bd: 24 · 3 bd: 13 · In service since 2006 · For families
- Fletcher Estates Tax credit (LIHTC) 205 NE Hayes Dr, Ankeny 50021 48 low-income homes · 1 bd: 16 · 2 bd: 16 · 3 bd: 16 · In service since 2012 · For families
- Rosewood Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 221 E McKinley Ave, Des Moines 50315 48 low-income homes · In service since 1991 · For people with disabilities, families
- The Meadows Tax credit (LIHTC) 7500 Meadowlands Dr, Des Moines 50320 48 low-income homes · 2 bd: 20 · 3 bd: 23 · 4 bd: 5 · In service since 2004 · For families
- Southridge Senior Lofts Tax credit (LIHTC) 695 E Army Post Rd, Des Moines 50315 52 homes, 46 low-income · 1 bd: 10 · 2 bd: 42 · In service since 2017 · For older adults
- Ahepa 192 II Apartments HUD-assisted 202 SE 30th St, Ankeny 50021 46 low-income homes · For older adults · (515) 964-0164
- Vine Street Lofts Tax credit (LIHTC) 101 2nd Ave, Des Moines 50309 109 homes, 44 low-income · Studio: 2 · 1 bd: 41 · 2 bd: 66 · In service since 2004 · For families
- Frank Smith Center HUD-assisted 2100 Beaver Ave, Des Moines 50310 44 low-income homes · For older adults · (515) 277-9621
- Villas at Meadow Springs Tax credit (LIHTC) 710 S Ankeny Blvd, Ankeny 50023 48 homes, 43 low-income · 1 bd: 12 · 2 bd: 36 · In service since 2018 · For older adults
- Hawthorn Hill Tax credit (LIHTC) 921 Pleasant St, Des Moines 50309 43 low-income homes · 1 bd: 35 · 2 bd: 6 · 3 bd: 2 · In service since 2008 · For families
- Stockbridge Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 1815 High St, Des Moines 50309 42 low-income homes · 1 bd: 38 · 2 bd: 4 · In service since 2008 · For families
- Deer Ridge Apts Vi Tax credit (LIHTC) 6000 Creston Ave, Des Moines 50321 40 low-income homes · 1 bd: 10 · 2 bd: 20 · 3 bd: 10 · In service since 2009 · For families
- Libertad Des Moines Tax credit (LIHTC) 4415 SE 14th St, Des Moines 50320 40 low-income homes · 1 bd: 4 · 2 bd: 18 · 3 bd: 18 · In service since 2019 · For families
- South View Senior Apts II Tax credit (LIHTC) 1900 SE 6th St, Des Moines 50315 40 low-income homes · 1 bd: 36 · 2 bd: 4 · In service since 2011 · For older adults
- Southview Senior Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 504 E Hillside Ave, Des Moines 50315 40 low-income homes · 1 bd: 36 · 2 bd: 4 · In service since 2009 · For older adults
- Virginia Park Apartments HUD-assisted 2111 E Virginia Ave, Des Moines 50320 40 homes, 39 low-income · For people with disabilities · (515) 288-5616
- Woodland West Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 3405 Woodland Ave, West Des Moines 50266 48 homes, 38 low-income · 1 bd: 4 · 2 bd: 20 · 3 bd: 24 · In service since 2011 · For families
- Southern Meadows Homes Tax credit (LIHTC) 2800 SE 8th St, Des Moines 50315 38 low-income homes · 3 bd: 38 · In service since 2014 · For families
- Ahepa 192-III Apartments HUD-assisted 112 SE 30th St, Ankeny 50021 37 low-income homes · For older adults · (515) 963-9519
- Apartments of River Trace HUD-assisted 1717 6th Ave, Des Moines 50314 37 homes, 36 low-income · For older adults · (515) 288-4398
- Southbrook Green III Tax credit (LIHTC) 1516 Evergreen Ave, Des Moines 50320 36 low-income homes · 1 bd: 12 · 2 bd: 12 · 3 bd: 12 · In service since 1999 · For people with disabilities, families
- Harrington Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 677 16th St, Des Moines 50314 36 homes, 35 low-income · Studio: 36 · In service since 2008 · For families
- Baker Creek Senior Living I Tax credit (LIHTC) 4560 Hubbell Ave, Des Moines 50317 33 low-income homes · 2 bd: 33 · In service since 2013 · For older adults
- Hilltop I Tax credit (LIHTC) 3720 E Douglas Ave, Des Moines 50317 36 homes, 32 low-income · 1 bd: 6 · 2 bd: 18 · 3 bd: 6 · 4 bd: 6 · In service since 2015 · For families
- Cottages at Johnston Commons Tax credit (LIHTC) 5814 Northglenn Dr, Johnston 50131 31 low-income homes · 1 bd: 2 · 2 bd: 29 · In service since 2011 · For older adults
- Crane Artists Lofts Tax credit (LIHTC) 1440 Walnut St, Des Moines 50309 36 homes, 30 low-income · Studio: 1 · 1 bd: 15 · 2 bd: 20 · In service since 2012 · For families
- Urban Crossing Apartments Tax credit (LIHTC) 875 SE Gateway Dr, Grimes 50111 34 homes, 30 low-income · 1 bd: 4 · 2 bd: 20 · 3 bd: 10 · In service since 2019 · For families
- Bloomsbury Village Tax credit (LIHTC) 1440 E Grand Ave, Des Moines 50316 30 low-income homes · 1 bd: 7 · 2 bd: 12 · 3 bd: 11 · In service since 2014 · For families
- Martin Luther King Brickstone II Tax credit (LIHTC) 1051 19th St, Des Moines 50314 30 low-income homes · 1 bd: 18 · 2 bd: 12 · In service since 2011
- Parkside East Apts IV Tax credit (LIHTC) 3560 E Douglas Ave, Des Moines 50317 30 low-income homes · 1 bd: 9 · 2 bd: 12 · 3 bd: 9 · In service since 2005 · For families
- Christ the King Senior Housing Tax credit (LIHTC) 5711 SW 9th St, Des Moines 50315 28 low-income homes · 1 bd: 10 · 2 bd: 18 · In service since 2012 · For older adults
- Forest & Fields Tax credit (LIHTC) 2104 Forest Ave, Des Moines 50311 28 low-income homes · 3 bd: 28 · In service since 2012 · For people experiencing homelessness
- Marketplace Lofts Tax credit (LIHTC) 312 Court Ave, Des Moines 50309 52 homes, 27 low-income · 1 bd: 32 · 2 bd: 20 · In service since 2007 · For families
- The Brickstones at Riverbend Tax credit (LIHTC) 513 Forest Ave, Des Moines 50314 30 homes, 27 low-income · 1 bd: 1 · 2 bd: 29 · In service since 2017 · For older adults
- Court Ave Lofts Tax credit (LIHTC) 308 Court Ave, Des Moines 50309 51 homes, 26 low-income · 1 bd: 18 · 2 bd: 33 · In service since 2006 · For families
- Des Moines Greystone Homes LP Tax credit (LIHTC) 1160 Mlk Jr Pkwy, Des Moines 50314 26 low-income homes · 4 bd: 26 · In service since 2013 · For families
- Canterbury Park Apts IV Tax credit (LIHTC) 600 NE 56th St, Pleasant Hill 50327 24 low-income homes · 1 bd: 6 · 2 bd: 12 · 3 bd: 6 · In service since 2009 · For families
- Cloveridge Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 858 8th St SE, Altoona 50009 24 low-income homes · In service since 1994 · For older adults, people with disabilities
- Deer Ridge Apts III Tax credit (LIHTC) 6009 Creston Ave, Des Moines 50321 24 low-income homes · 1 bd: 6 · 2 bd: 12 · 3 bd: 6 · In service since 2003 · For families
- Mitchellville Park Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 401 Center Ave S, Mitchellville 50169 24 low-income homes · 1 bd: 8 · 2 bd: 8 · 3 bd: 8 · In service since 2011 · For families
- Uplift Manor Apartments HUD-assisted 2916 30th St, Des Moines 50310 24 low-income homes · For people with disabilities · (515) 279-8808
- Willow Bend Apts II Tax credit (LIHTC) 6500 SW 9th St, Des Moines 50315 24 low-income homes · 1 bd: 6 · 2 bd: 12 · 3 bd: 6 · In service since 2009 · For families
- Candleridge Apts of Bondurant Tax credit (LIHTC) 515 Brick St SE, Bondurant 50035 23 low-income homes · In service since 1992
- Olive Street Brickstone Tax credit (LIHTC) 1710 High St, Des Moines 50309 21 low-income homes · 1 bd: 15 · 2 bd: 6 · In service since 2012 · For families
- 5h Public housing 1431 Stewart St, Des Moines 50316 20 low-income homes · Run by Des Moines Municipal Housing Agency · Homes at several sites · (515) 323-8950
- Community Homes Tax credit (LIHTC) 5301 SW 9th St, Des Moines 50315 18 low-income homes · 1 bd: 8 · 2 bd: 6 · 3 bd: 4 · In service since 2008 · For families
- Martin Luther King Brickstone Development Tax credit (LIHTC) 1039 19th St, Des Moines 50314 18 low-income homes · 1 bd: 9 · 2 bd: 9 · In service since 2010 · For families
- Woodland Ave Brickstone Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 1500 Woodland Ave, Des Moines 50309 56 homes, 16 low-income · 1 bd: 44 · 2 bd: 12 · In service since 2003 · For families
- Capitol City Duplexes Tax credit (LIHTC) 3600 SE 11th St, Des Moines 50315 16 low-income homes · 2 bd: 16 · In service since 2012 · For families
- Candleridge Apts of Runnells Tax credit (LIHTC) 608 Brown St, Runnells 50237 15 low-income homes · In service since 1991
- Westminster House II HUD-assisted 5631 Francis Ave, Des Moines 50310 15 low-income homes · For people with disabilities · (515) 279-1015
- Westminster House III HUD-assisted 940 Cummins Pkwy, Des Moines 50312 15 low-income homes · For people with disabilities · (515) 277-7933
- The Apartments of Owl Creek HUD-assisted 725 SW Ankeny Rd, Ankeny 50023 14 low-income homes · For people with disabilities · (515) 289-1706
- Kromer Flats Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 1433 6th Ave, Des Moines 50314 8 low-income homes · 2 bd: 2 · 3 bd: 6 · In service since 2001 · For families
- 2348 Dean Ave Tax credit (LIHTC) 2348 Dean Ave, Des Moines 50317 6 homes, 5 low-income · In service since 1989
- 1618 Oakland Ave Tax credit (LIHTC) 1618 Oakland Ave, Des Moines 50314 4 low-income homes · In service since 1990
- East Ridge Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 1431 E 40th St, Des Moines 50317 4 low-income homes · In service since 1992
- 1303 22nd ST Tax credit (LIHTC) 1303 22nd St, Des Moines 50311 2 low-income homes · In service since 1989
- 2107 27th ST Tax credit (LIHTC) 2107 27th St, Des Moines 50310 2 low-income homes · In service since 1989
- 1805 8th ST Tax credit (LIHTC) 1805 8th St, Des Moines 50314 1 low-income home · In service since 1989
- 38 E Gray ST Tax credit (LIHTC) 38 E Gray St, Des Moines 50315 1 low-income home · In service since 1988
- 697 18th ST Tax credit (LIHTC) 697 18th St, Des Moines 50314 1 low-income home · In service since 1989
- Chapelridge at Johnston Tax credit (LIHTC) 6820 Gables Way, Johnston 50131 173 homes
- Lyn Crossing Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 2000 Meadow Chase Ln, Des Moines 50320 45 homes
- Silver Oaks Tax credit (LIHTC) 979 Oakridge Dr, Des Moines 50314 39 homes
- Hickory Grove Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 4010 E 42nd St, Des Moines 50317 38 homes
- Deer Ridge II Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 6009 Creston Ave, Des Moines 50321 25 homes
- Parkside East II Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 3560 E Douglas Ave, Des Moines 50317 17 homes
5 properties have two programs at the same address and appear once. Search HUD's map
Source: HUD, retrieved November 6, 2026. LIHTC database, updated May 14, 2025; Assisted multifamily properties, updated October 23, 2026; Public housing developments, updated October 23, 2026.
Section 8
The Section 8 voucher in Polk County
The Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) pays part of your rent on a home you choose. Your public housing agency runs it. 2 agencies serve in Polk County. Here is what the rules say:
The rules, with their source
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You apply at the public housing agency. If you qualify, your name usually goes on a waiting list. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or noncitizens with eligible status as HUD defines it. Source: HUD
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Generally, your family must have very low income: no more than 50% of the area median income, by family size (the middle column of the table). Source: 24 CFR §5.603, §982.201(b)
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Each year, at least 75% of the families an agency admits from its list must have extremely low income (the 30% column). Source: 24 CFR §982.201(b)(2)
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If the rent is below the payment standard, the family generally pays 30% of its adjusted monthly income. If it is above, the family pays more. Source: 24 CFR §982.1(a)(3)
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When you move in, if the rent is above the payment standard, your share cannot go over 40% of your adjusted monthly income. Source: 24 CFR §982.508
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Each agency sets a payment standard for each size. Without asking HUD, it can go from 90% to 110% of the fair market rent. Source: 24 CFR §982.503(b), (c)
| People | Extremely low (30%) | Very low (50%) | Low |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $24,450 | $40,750 | $65,200 |
| 2 people | $27,950 | $46,600 | $74,500 |
| 3 people | $31,450 | $52,400 | $83,800 |
| 4 people | $34,900 | $58,200 | $93,100 |
| 5 people | $38,680 | $62,900 | $100,550 |
| 6 people | $44,360 | $67,550 | $108,000 |
| 7 people | $50,040 | $72,200 | $115,450 |
| 8 people | $55,720 | $76,850 | $122,900 |
Area median income: $116,400. HUD income limits by family size, Fiscal year 2026. Area: Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA HUD Metro FMR Area. Source: HUD, Fiscal year 2026
Possible payment standard
- Studio $992 – $1,212
- 1 bedroom $1,031 – $1,260
- 2 bedrooms $1,224 – $1,496
- 3 bedrooms $1,670 – $2,042
- 4 bedrooms $1,711 – $2,091
The range the rule allows: 90% to 110% of the county's fair market rent. Your agency publishes its own.
Housing agencies that serve this place
- Des Moines Municipal Housing Agency Public housing and Section 8 vouchers · 3,709 vouchers · 410 public housing units (515) 323-8950 Des Moines Municipal Housing Agency: CMJohansen@dmgov.org
- Central Iowa Regional Housing Authority Public housing and Section 8 vouchers · 1,045 vouchers · 132 public housing units (515) 986-1882 Central Iowa Regional Housing Authority: kwignall@cirhahome.org
Housing agencies in Iowa Source: HUD, Retrieved November 6, 2026
Your rights as a tenant in Iowa
What Iowa law says about deposits, notices and eviction, with the citation for each rule.
See your rights, rule by ruleCompare these rules with other states →
A summary of state law, not legal advice. Cities may have additional rules.
- How much can they charge for a deposit?
- Up to 2 months of rent
- Iowa Code §562A.12(1)
- When must they return my deposit?
- 30 days
- Iowa Code §562A.12(3)(a)
- If I fall behind on rent, what notice must I get?
- 3 days
- Iowa Code §562A.27(2)
- How much notice ends a month-to-month rental?
- 30 days
- Iowa Code §562A.34(2)
- Only a court order can remove youIowa Code §562A.33
- Repair and deduct from the rentIowa Code §562A.27(4)
Help
Where to get help with rent in Polk County
This HUD-approved agency has an office in Polk County. They counsel for free or at low cost.
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Home Opportunities Made Easy, Inc. (home, Inc.)
1618 6th Ave, Des Moines · Spanish
- Home improvement and repairs
- Homelessness services
- and 5 more
Tool
How much cash do you need to move in?
It starts with the 2-bedroom fair market rent in Polk County. Change the rent, the deposit and the fees to yours: the numbers stay in your browser.
Count power on top of the rent: in Iowa, the average home bill was $112 a month in 2024 (EIA). See electricity and gas costs
Your move
We use the place's fair market rent and the state's deposit rule.
Adjust advanced details
Let's do the math
Cash to move in
$2,720
What you need before you get the keys.
What adds up
- First month
- $1,360
- Security deposit
- $1,360
- Total
- $2,720
When you'll have it
Enter what you can set aside each month to see how long it takes.
What helps
- Ask for a receipt for every payment and keep a copy of the lease.
- On move-in day, walk through the home and take dated photos.
- Never send money for a home you haven't seen or a lease you haven't read.
This is a planning estimate, not a price. What you are asked for depends on the landlord, your lease and your state's and city's rules. It is not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
What is the fair market rent in Polk County?
According to HUD (Fiscal year 2027): Studio: $1,102; 1 bedroom: $1,145; 2 bedrooms: $1,360; 3 bedrooms: $1,856; 4 bedrooms: $1,901. It covers rent plus basic utilities, except the phone.
How much do you need to earn to rent in Polk County?
Paying the 2-bedroom fair market rent ($1,360) without spending more than 30% of income takes $26.15 an hour full time, or $54,400 a year.
Who qualifies for Section 8 in Polk County?
Generally, families with very low income: no more than 50% of the area median income. For 4 people, HUD's limit here is $58,200 a year (Fiscal year 2026). The family usually pays 30% of its adjusted monthly income. You apply at the housing agency.
How much does Section 8 pay in Polk County?
The voucher pays up to your housing agency's payment standard, minus your share. The rule lets the agency set it between 90% and 110% of the fair market rent: for 2 bedrooms here, between $1,224 and $1,496 a month. Your agency publishes its figure.
Does the fair market rent change by ZIP code in Polk County?
For 2 bedrooms they run from $930 in 50226 to $1,690 in 50021. Where HUD designates these areas, or where the housing agency chooses to use them, the voucher is figured on the ZIP code's rent instead of the county's. Ask your agency which one it uses.
How many low-income apartments are there in Polk County?
HUD lists 138 properties with homes for low-income households in Polk County: tax-credit apartments (LIHTC), HUD-assisted buildings and public housing. They run from the most low-income homes to the fewest. For tax-credit apartments and HUD-assisted buildings, you apply directly at the building's management office. They tell you whether units are open and how to apply; HUD does not have that information.
How many households spend too much on rent in Polk County?
HUD counts rent as a burden when it reaches 30% of income or more. In Polk County, 46% of renter households are in that position; in Iowa, 44%, and nationwide, 51% (Average 2020–2024, Census).