Tennessee vs Iowa: Rent Comparison 2026
Side-by-side comparison of fair market rents, income, and tenant protections between Tennessee and Iowa.
Iowa is 16% cheaper for a 2-bedroom rental than Tennessee, saving renters approximately $150/mo ($1,800/year).
| Metric | Tennessee | Iowa |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1BR Rent | $800/mo | $647/mo |
| Average 2BR Rent | $964/mo | $814/mo |
| Median Income | $52,876 | $46,260 |
| Renter % | 37.9% | 31.5% |
| Tenant Rights | 3/10 | 4/10 |
Rent Burden Comparison
Tennessee
2BR Rent: $964/mo of $52,876/yr income
21.9% of income
Iowa
2BR Rent: $814/mo of $46,260/yr income
21.1% of income
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tennessee or Iowa cheaper to rent in?
Iowa has lower average rents. A 2-bedroom averages $814/mo, which is $150 less per month than Tennessee (16% cheaper).
Which state has better tenant protections, Tennessee or Iowa?
Iowa has stronger tenant rights with a score of 4/10 compared to 3/10.
What is the income difference between Tennessee and Iowa?
Tennessee median income: $52,876. Iowa median income: $46,260. Difference: $6,616/year.
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