South Dakota vs Iowa: Rent Comparison 2026
Side-by-side comparison of fair market rents, income, and tenant protections between South Dakota and Iowa.
South Dakota is 2% cheaper for a 2-bedroom rental than Iowa, saving renters approximately $18/mo ($216/year).
| Metric | South Dakota | Iowa |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1BR Rent | $637/mo | $647/mo |
| Average 2BR Rent | $796/mo | $814/mo |
| Median Income | $46,911 | $46,260 |
| Renter % | 40.4% | 31.5% |
| Tenant Rights | 3/10 | 4/10 |
Rent Burden Comparison
South Dakota
2BR Rent: $796/mo of $46,911/yr income
20.4% of income
Iowa
2BR Rent: $814/mo of $46,260/yr income
21.1% of income
Frequently Asked Questions
Is South Dakota or Iowa cheaper to rent in?
South Dakota has lower average rents. A 2-bedroom averages $796/mo, which is $18 less per month than Iowa (2% cheaper).
Which state has better tenant protections, South Dakota or Iowa?
Iowa has stronger tenant rights with a score of 4/10 compared to 3/10.
What is the income difference between South Dakota and Iowa?
South Dakota median income: $46,911. Iowa median income: $46,260. Difference: $651/year.