Rentometer, Inc. | Data as of 10/23/2025
Fort Dodge offers a balanced rental market that caters to a variety of lifestyle preferences, from historic downtown apartments to spacious family homes on the city’s charming outskirts. Prospective renters can find well‑maintained one‑ and two‑bedroom apartments in the $800 to $1100 range, while larger three‑bedroom units often sit in the $1500 range, providing flexibility for growing households. For those seeking a house, two‑bedroom options typically fall within the $800‑$900 bracket, and three‑bedroom homes are commonly available around the $1200 range, delivering ample space for comfortable living.
The city’s vibrant neighborhoods, such as the Riverwalk district and the historic Eastside, blend convenient walkability with easy access to local amenities. Residents enjoy proximity to the Fort Dodge Museum of Art, the Science Museum of Fort Dodge, and the bustling downtown shopping corridor, which features boutiques, cafés, and seasonal farmer’s markets. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate nearby natural attractions like Ledges State Park and the Des Moines River, offering trails, fishing, and scenic picnicking spots.
Fort Dodge’s rental market is supported by strong community institutions, including Iowa Central Community College and a robust healthcare sector anchored by UnityPoint Health‑Fort Dodge. The city’s affordable housing options, combined with cultural events, recreational opportunities, and a friendly Midwestern atmosphere, make it an appealing destination for students, professionals, and families looking to settle in central Iowa.
| Property Type | Bedrooms | Average | Median | Min - Max | 25th - 75th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment | 1 Bedroom | $859 | $856 | $500 - $1,270 | $700 - $1,100 |
| Apartment | 2 Bedroom | $1,073 | $1,100 | $750 - $1,384 | $825 - $1,310 |
| Apartment | 3 Bedroom | $1,505 | $1,420 | $1,235 - $1,860 | $1,235 - $1,860 |
| House | 2 Bedroom | $870 | $825 | $600 - $1,175 | $750 - $1,050 |
| House | 3 Bedroom | $1,210 | $950 | $780 - $2,250 | $895 - $1,400 |
In the current period, the average rent in Fort Dodge was
$860 for 1 Bedroom,
$934 for 2 Bedroom, and
$1,299 for 3 Bedroom.
Note: This analysis includes only bedroom types with sufficient data.
Data provided by Rentometer, Inc.