Cheap Homes for Rent in Polk County, IA from $500 (59 Rentals)

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Search the lowest-cost Homes available for rent right now in Polk County.

What Does “Rent Burdened” Mean? How Much Rent Is Too Much

Learn the official definition (spending 30% or more of your gross income on housing) and how to calculate your exact rent-to-income ratio. This guide offers expert tips on factoring in total housing costs (including utilities and fees) and budgeting accurately to avoid unnecessary financial strain.

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Your Guide to Co-Signers: The Risks, Rewards, and Everything in Between

Thinking about getting a co-signer for your rental application? We break down what a co-signer is, the potential benefits, and the serious risks for both parties. Find out if it's the right choice for you.

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Cash or credit? Understanding the Importance of Credit Score in Real Estate and Renting

Discover how your credit score impacts your ability to lease or buy a home. Learn how credit scores are determined, how to check yours, and strategies to improve it for real estate success.

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property at 2905 High St

$875 - $900

1 Bedroom Rentals

Available Now

2905 High St

Des MoinesIA50312

Roommate Matching: Finding the Right Fit and Avoiding Pitfalls

When searching for a roommate, follow this list of essential steps and set clear expectations to create a solid foundation for a harmonious living situation.

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property at 209 SW School St

$975

Total Monthly Price

Total Monthly Price

Base Rent
$975
Total Monthly Price
$975

2 Bedroom, 1 Bath Home for Rent

Available Now

209 SW School St

AnkenyIA50023
property at 3841 69th St

$975 - $1,200

Total Monthly Price

Total Monthly Price

Base Rent
$975 - $1,200
Total Monthly Price
$975 - $1,200

1 To 2 Bedroom Townhomes for Rent

Available Now

3841 69th St

UrbandaleIA50322
property at 3650 NE 57th Ave

$985

Total Monthly Price

Total Monthly Price

Base Rent
$985
Total Monthly Price
$985

2 Bedroom, 1 Bath Home for Rent

Available Jun 15

3650 NE 57th Ave

BerwickIA50032

The Art of the Rental Viewing: What to look for during a property tour

Touring a rental? This guide helps you know exactly what to look for, from safety features to hidden flaws, so you can confidently sign your lease or keep searching.

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Showing Results 1-50, Page 1 of 2

Cheapest Available Polk County Apartments for Rent

 

The cheapest available apartment rental in Polk County, IA is a 1 Bed unit found at Johnston Crossing Senior Apartments I in the Green Meadows West neighborhood priced from $548. Highland Park Apartments in the Grandview College Area neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a 1 Bed apartment currently listed from $597. Here is today’s list of the most affordable Polk County apartments for rent:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPriced From
Johnston Crossing Senior Apartments I1 Bedroom1BR,1BA$548
Highland Park ApartmentsStandard 1 Bed1BR,1BA$597
Highland Park ManorStandard 1 Bed1BR,1BA$597
The View on Douglas0BR/1.0BAStudio,1BA$599
Village GreenStudioStudio,1BA$600
The Concord BuildingStudioStudio,1BA$630
The AcaciaStudio - ClassicStudio,1BA$647
Douglas Oaks0BR/1.0BAStudio,1BA$650
Valley Acres Apartments1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom1BR,1BA$650

Best Value Apartments for Rent in Polk County, IA

As of June 02, 2026 the best value apartment in the Polk County area is the $0.77 price per square foot Four bed Model at Prairie Trails in the in the Hayes Acres neighborhood starting from $2,300. The second greatest value Polk County apartment is the 2 Bedroom 1.5 Bath Model at Normandy Terrace Apartments starting at $900 with a $0.60 price per square foot in the Golf & Country Club neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for Polk County apartments based on price per square foot:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPrice Per Sq.Ft.
Prairie TrailsFour bed4BR,3BA$0.77
Normandy Terrace Apartments2 Bedroom 1.5 Bath2BR,1.5BA$0.60
Southern Meadows HomesPlan B - two story3BR,2BA$0.93
Applewood PropertiesTwo Bedroom2BR,1BA$0.87
Magnolia Manor Apartments and Townhomes2 Bedroom2BR,1BA$0.93
West Glen ApartmentsB1 Classic2BR,1.5BA$0.92
Northtown Apartments2 Bedroom 1 Bathroom2BR,1BA$0.92
Douglas Park Apartments2 Bedroom 1 Bathroom2BR,1BA$0.94
The Village at WestchesterBedford2BR,1BA$0.91
Johnston Crossing Senior Apartments I1 Bedroom1BR,1BA$0.80

Frequently Asked Questions about Polk County

What type of rentals are currently available in Polk County?

There are currently 1488 Apartments for Rent in Polk County, IA with pricing that ranges from $480 to $6,746. There are also 269 Single Family Homes for rent, Condos, and Townhome rentals currently available in Polk County ranging from $550 to $4,200.

What is the current price range for Rental Homes in Polk County?

Today's rental pricing for Homes for Rent, Condos and Townhomes in Polk County ranges from $550 to $4,200 with an average monthly rent of $2,062.

How much are larger Three and Four Bedroom Rentals in Polk County?

For those who are looking for larger living arrangements, Three Bedroom Apartments in Polk County range from $685 to $6,746, while Three Bedroom Homes, Condos, and Townhomes for rent range from $1,045 to $2,995. Four Bedroom Single-Family rentals are also available starting from $1,300 and Four Bedroom Apartments start at $560.

Expert Rental Resources

The rental experts at ApartmentHomeLiving.com provide you with top advice, tools, and tips for understanding the leasing process and finding the perfect rental. Here are a few helpful rental and leasing articles from our experts to guide you on your search.

Articles, How-To's, and Tips

decorative image for Neighborhood and Market Insights: How to Choose the Right Area to Rent article

Neighborhood and Market Insights: How to Choose the Right Area to Rent

Written by: Robin Stewart

Apartment-hunting can be a gargantuan task. Renters have a wish list of items—some luxuries, some necessities—but finding what you seek in the right place is perhaps the most important part of the journey.

decorative image for A Seasoned Property Manager's Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Deposit Back article

A Seasoned Property Manager's Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Deposit Back

Written by: Lauren Harrington

I’m going to talk with you as a seasoned property manager and friend. So, let’s start with your security deposit. I want you to think about this guide as insider information. You deserve your deposit back.

decorative image for Expert Solutions for Creating the Perfect Work-From-Home Apartment Layouts article

Expert Solutions for Creating the Perfect Work-From-Home Apartment Layouts

Written by: Lauren Harrington

This article is based on first-hand experience managing apartment communities and helping renters adapt to their spaces after moving in.

decorative image for What Does “Rent Burdened” Mean? How Much Rent Is Too Much article

What Does “Rent Burdened” Mean? How Much Rent Is Too Much

Written by: Lauren Harrington

This article draws from first-hand renter experiences and recurring financial challenges reported after moving in.