Mortgage Rates in Council Bluffs, Iowa — March 2026
Updated March 2026 | Based on Council Bluffs market data and regional lending conditions
Council Bluffs is a growing city in Iowa with a population of 62,230. The current 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Council Bluffs is 6.74%, which is 0.09% above the national average. With a median home price of $175,000 and a 20% down payment of $35,000, homebuyers can expect a monthly principal and interest payment of approximately $907.
Current Mortgage Rates in Council Bluffs, IA
Below are the current average mortgage rates available in the Council Bluffs area as of March 2026. Rates vary by lender, credit score, and loan-to-value ratio. Use our free calculator above to see your personalized estimate.
| Loan Type | Rate | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-Year Fixed | 6.74% | 6.65% | +0.09% |
| 15-Year Fixed | 5.98% | 5.89% | +0.09% |
| 5/1 ARM | 6.24% | 6.15% | +0.09% |
| FHA | 6.34% | 6.25% | +0.09% |
| VA | 6.14% | 6.05% | +0.09% |
| Jumbo | 6.94% | 6.85% | +0.09% |
Council Bluffs Housing Market Overview
The Council Bluffs housing market offers relatively affordable housing compared to many major cities. The median household income in Council Bluffs is $48,250, and the cost of living index is 82.5 (national average = 100). Based on the 28% affordability rule, you would need an income of approximately $48,686 to comfortably afford the median-priced home in Council Bluffs, which exceeds the current median household income.
Monthly Payment Breakdown for Council Bluffs
Based on the median home price of $175,000 with 20% down ($35,000), here is what you can expect to pay monthly in Council Bluffs:
15-Year vs. 30-Year Mortgage in Council Bluffs
Choosing a 15-year mortgage in Council Bluffs at 5.98% instead of a 30-year at 6.74% would save you $114,120 in total interest over the life of the loan. However, your monthly payment would be $1,180 instead of $907 — an increase of $273 per month.
Calculate Your Council Bluffs Mortgage Payment
Use our free calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your loan amount, interest rate, and term.
Open Free CalculatorFrequently Asked Questions About Mortgages in Council Bluffs
What are the current mortgage rates in Council Bluffs, IA?
As of March 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Council Bluffs, Iowa is 6.74%, while the 15-year fixed rate is 5.98%. FHA loans average 6.34% and VA loans 6.14%. These rates are 0.09% above the national average of 6.65%.
How much is a monthly mortgage payment in Council Bluffs?
Based on the median home price of $175,000 with 20% down, the estimated monthly mortgage payment in Council Bluffs is $907 for principal and interest. Including property taxes of $229/month, the total monthly housing cost is approximately $1,136.
What income do I need to buy a home in Council Bluffs?
Using the 28% rule, you would need an annual income of approximately $48,686 to afford the median-priced home in Council Bluffs at $175,000. The median household income in Council Bluffs is $48,250. This means most households would need to either earn above the median or consider homes below $175,000.
Is Council Bluffs a good place to buy a home in 2026?
Council Bluffs offers a below-average cost of living with a cost of living index of 82.5 (national average = 100). The property tax rate in Iowa is 1.57%, which is above the national average. Council Bluffs has a population of 62,230 and offers a very affordable lifestyle.
Mortgage Rates in Other Iowa Cities
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Last updated: March 2026. Rates are approximate averages based on regional lending data for the Council Bluffs, Iowa area. Individual rates may vary by lender, credit score, loan amount, and other factors. Use our free calculator for a personalized estimate.