Updated 2026 · Based on median market data for Cedar Rapids, IA
Cedar Rapids sits in the Midwest with a population of 137,710 growing at 0.4% annually. The median home costs $185,000 while rents average $1,050/mo, producing an estimated cap rate of 4.16%. This is a moderate market that rewards careful deal sourcing.
Cedar Rapids works best for experienced investors with a clear strategy — Section 8, student housing, or deep value-add rehabs. The 4.16% cap rate at median prices is tight, so success depends on buying below market, forcing appreciation through renovation, or accessing above-market rent streams through niche tenant bases.
Target properties priced 15-25% below the $185,000 median — around $148,000 or less. At this price point with $1,050/mo rents, your cap rate improves to roughly 5.8%. Factor in 1.48% property taxes ($2,738/yr), budget 5% of gross rent for maintenance, and underwrite to a 5.5% vacancy rate. On a 20% down conventional loan at 7%, monthly PITI will run approximately $1,312.
Every deal should be evaluated individually using our calculator tools. Median data provides a starting point; actual returns depend on the specific property, financing, and your management approach.
Run the numbers on a specific Cedar Rapids property using our cap rate calculator (pre-filled with Cedar Rapids data). Compare Cedar Rapids against similar markets in the Midwest region. If you're considering a value-add approach, try our BRRRR calculator to model a rehab scenario.