Mortgage Rates in Fort Dodge, Iowa — April 2026
Updated April 2026 | Based on Fort Dodge market data and regional lending conditions
Fort Dodge is a smaller Iowa community of 24,168 where home prices remain well below the national median, making homeownership more attainable. The current 30-year fixed rate here is 6.6% (0.51% above the national average). At a median home price of $146,000, the estimated $948/month payment (with 20% down) is affordable on the local median income of $59,200.
Whether you call it a 30-year mortgage, 30-year home loan, 30-year house loan, or 30-year mortgage loan, the underlying product is the same: a fixed-rate amortizing loan paid over 360 months. In Fort Dodge, IA, the current 30-year rate is 6.6%. Shorter terms (15-year fixed at 5.87% or 20-year fixed, typically priced between the 15- and 30-year) reduce total interest paid but increase monthly payments — see our 15-year vs 30-year comparison for the math. Government-backed options include FHA loans (6.43%) and VA loans (6.18%), often available at lower rates with reduced down payment requirements.
Current Mortgage Rates in Fort Dodge, IA
Below are the current average mortgage rates available in the Fort Dodge area as of April 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 | 6.6% | 6.09% | +0.51% |
| 15-Year Fixed | 5.87% | 5.58% | +0.29% |
| 5/1 ARM | 6.16% | 5.95% | +0.21% |
| FHA | 6.43% | 5.85% | +0.58% |
| VA | 6.18% | 5.65% | +0.53% |
| Jumbo | 6.85% | 6.25% | +0.6% |
Fort Dodge Housing Market Overview
Fort Dodge is one of the more affordable housing markets, with a median home price of just $146,000 — significantly below the national median. Combined with a property tax rate of 1.66%, the total monthly housing cost of $948 is within reach for many local households earning the median $59,200.
Monthly Payment Breakdown for Fort Dodge
Based on the median home price of $146,000 with 20% down ($29,200), here is what you can expect to pay monthly in Fort Dodge:
15-Year vs. 30-Year Mortgage in Fort Dodge
Choosing a 15-year mortgage in Fort Dodge at 5.87% instead of a 30-year at 6.6% would save you $92,700 in total interest over the life of the loan. However, your monthly payment would be $977 instead of $746 — an increase of $231 per month.
Calculate Your Fort Dodge 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 Fort Dodge
What are the current mortgage rates in Fort Dodge, IA?
As of April 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Fort Dodge, Iowa is 6.6%, while the 15-year fixed rate is 5.87%. FHA loans average 6.43% and VA loans 6.18%. These rates are 0.51% above the national average of 6.09%.
How much is a monthly mortgage payment in Fort Dodge?
Based on the median home price of $146,000 with 20% down, the estimated monthly mortgage payment in Fort Dodge is $746 for principal and interest. Including property taxes of $202/month, the total monthly housing cost is approximately $948.
What income do I need to buy a home in Fort Dodge?
Using the 28% rule, you would need an annual income of approximately $40,629 to afford the median-priced home in Fort Dodge at $146,000. The median household income in Fort Dodge is $59,200. The median income is currently sufficient to meet this threshold.
Is Fort Dodge a good place to buy a home in 2026?
Fort Dodge offers a below-average cost of living with a cost of living index of 80.7 (national average = 100). The property tax rate in Iowa is 1.66%, which is above the national average. Fort Dodge has a population of 24,168 and offers a very affordable lifestyle.
Mortgage Rates in Other Iowa Cities
Related Tools & Guides
📊 Sources & Methodology
- 30-yr/15-yr fixed rates: Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS), weekly national average adjusted for Iowa regional spread.
- Median home price: $146,000 sourced from Redfin / Zillow real estate listings (2026 data).
- Property tax rate: 1.66% effective rate per Tax Foundation 2026 state property tax data.
- Median household income: $59,200 per US Census Bureau ACS 5-year estimate.
- Calculations: standard amortization formula M = P[r(1+r)^n] / [(1+r)^n − 1], with r = monthly rate, n = 360 months, P = loan amount (80% of home price).
Last updated: April 2026. Rates are approximate averages based on regional lending data for the Fort Dodge, Iowa area. Individual rates may vary by lender, credit score, loan amount, and other factors. Use our free calculator for a personalized estimate.