Appanoose County, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
12,184
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,934/yr
7.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,312
-0.0% year-over-year change

Appanoose County population

How many people live in Appanoose County

Appanoose County is home to 12,184 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.3% of Appanoose County locals are male, and 49.7% are female.

Total population
12,184
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.3%
6,124
Female
49.7%
6,060
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,124 50.3% -0.2%
Female 6,060 49.7% -0.7%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Appanoose County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.6% are children under 15, then 11.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.4% of the population, while another 25.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.6%
15 to 24
11.8%
25 to 44
21.4%
45 to 64
25.5%
Over 65
23.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,144 17.6% -0.1%
15 to 24 1,434 11.8% 10.3%
25 to 44 2,613 21.4% -0.3%
45 to 64 3,111 25.5% -6.0%
Over 65 2,882 23.6% 0.6%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Appanoose County, 98.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 95.2% of locals are Caucasian, 0.8% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.6%
Non-citizens
0.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 12,013 98.6% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 67 0.6% -13.0%
Non-citizens 104 0.8% 9.5%
Racial breakdown
White
95.2%
Black or African American
0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 11,604 95.2%
Black or African American 100 0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3 0%
Asian 111 0.9%
Two or more races 366 3%

Households in Appanoose County

A peek inside Appanoose County households

Appanoose County has 5,199 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.3% are families, while the remaining 37.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,199
3.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,959
Family households
3,240
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,959 37.7% 8.6%
Family households 3,240 62.3% 1.2%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Appanoose County

The housing landscape of Appanoose County

Appanoose County's housing consists of 6,312 units, with 79.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.3% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 4.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,312
-0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,035 79.8%
1 unit, attached 80 1.3%
2 units 164 2.6%
3 or 4 units 168 2.7%
5 to 9 units 165 2.6%
10 to 19 units 48 0.8%
20 to 49 units 145 2.3%
50 or more units 188 3%
Mobile home 302 4.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 17 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
88
11.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Appanoose County

In Appanoose County, the median construction year is 1964. About 35.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,235 35.4% -1.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 366 5.8% 26.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 334 5.3% -10.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 537 8.5% -6.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,136 18% 9.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 357 5.7% -25.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 515 8.2% 4.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 448 7.1% 4.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 296 4.7% -1.3%
Built in 2020 or later 88 1.4% 11.4%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Appanoose County occupancy rates

Out of the 5,199 occupied housing units in Appanoose County, 68.8% are owner-occupied, while 31.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,199
3.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,623
Owner occupied
3,576
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,623 31.2% 5.0%
Owner occupied 3,576 68.8% 3.4%
Unoccupied housing units
17.6%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Appanoose County housing costs

Housing costs in Appanoose County come to a median of $817 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $784.

Median housing costs per month
$817/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Appanoose County
$784/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Appanoose County

Appanoose County education at a glance

About 41.6% of the population in Appanoose County went to high school, while 20.9% pursued college studies. Another 12.3% earned an associate degree and 15.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 603 6.3% 9.2%
High school diploma 3,974 41.6% -3.5%
College diploma 1,996 20.9% -1.0%
Associate degree 1,176 12.3% -0.1%
Bachelor's degree 1,452 15.2% 5.0%
Graduate degree 357 3.7% -4.3%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Appanoose County

How much people earn in Appanoose County

The average annual household income in Appanoose County was $71,730 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,934, reflecting a +7.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Appanoose County
$71,730/year
4.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Appanoose County
$54,934/year
7.4% year-over-year change

Appanoose County income by age

In Appanoose County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $64,085. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $66,798 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $30,391, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,000 in earnings. Overall, 82.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $30,391 -27.8%
25 - 44 $64,085 2.0%
45 - 64 $66,798 10.9%
Over 65 $45,000 2.0%
Above poverty level
9,767
Below poverty level
2,099
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 9,767 82.3% 2.1%
Below poverty level 2,099 17.7% -14.9%

Employment in Appanoose County

Workforce and job types in Appanoose County

The job market in Appanoose County is powered by 5,343 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 63.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 36.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 16.1% run their own businesses, 62.3% are employed by private companies, and 14.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,343
6.2% year-over-year change
White collar
3,387
Blue collar
1,956
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,387 63.4% 6.7%
Blue collar 1,956 36.6% 5.3%
Employer type
Self employees
16.1%
Private companies
62.3%
Governmental workers
14.6%
Not for profit companies
7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 861 16.1% 12.6%
Private companies 3,331 62.3% 2.9%
Governmental workers 779 14.6% 14.6%
Not for profit companies 372 7% 6.3%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
-42.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Appanoose County stands at 3.8%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Appanoose County

How people get around in Appanoose County

Commuting methods vary: 86.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 4,534 86.8% 2.7%
Taxicab 37 0.7% 54.2%
Bus or trolleybus 8 0.2% 300.0%
Subway or elevated 2 0% N/A
Motorcycle 28 0.5% 115.4%
Bicycle 60 1.2% 50.0%
Walk 96 1.8% 68.4%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Appanoose County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
52544 8,121 3,480 $50,572 $63,770
52549 487 189 $62,292 $67,459
52555 193 87 $36,161 $47,230
52571 1,660 655 $81,953 $114,299
52572 844 312 $72,727 $81,813
52574 377 197 $46,625 $54,161
52581 168 78 $55,000 $61,164
52590 1,464 498 $66,833 $70,444
52593 97 48 $66,875 $92,479
52594 676 215 $75,938 $83,169

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FAQs about Appanoose County demographics 

What is the total population of Appanoose County?

Appanoose County has a total population of 12,184 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Appanoose County?

The gender ratio in Appanoose County is as follows:
  • 50.3% males (6,124 residents)
  • 49.7% females (6,060 residents)

What is the median age in Appanoose County?

The median age in Appanoose County is 43.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Appanoose County?

The age distribution in Appanoose County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.6% (2,144 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.8% (1,434 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.4% (2,613 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.5% (3,111 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.6% (2,882 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Appanoose County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Appanoose County is as follows:
  • White: 95.2% (11,604 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.8% (100 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (3 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (111 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3% (366 residents)
  • Other: 0% (0 residents)

What percentage of the population in Appanoose County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.6% of the population in Appanoose County.

How many housing units are there in Appanoose County?

There are 6,312 housing units in Appanoose County, reflecting a -0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Appanoose County and what is the average household size?

Appanoose County has a total of 5,199 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Appanoose County?

Appanoose County has a median household income of $54,934, representing a +7.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Appanoose County?

The employment rate is 96.2% in Appanoose County, with a workforce of 5,343 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 63.4% (3,387 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 36.6% (1,956 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 16.1% (861 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.3% (3,331 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.6% (779 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7% (372 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025