Black Hawk County, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
131,049
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,417/yr
2.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
58,991
0.4% year-over-year change

Black Hawk County population

How many people live in Black Hawk County

Black Hawk County is home to 131,049 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.2% of Black Hawk County locals are male, and 50.8% are female.

Total population
131,049
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.2%
64,411
Female
50.8%
66,638
Value Percent YoY change
Male 64,411 49.2% 0.1%
Female 66,638 50.8% 0.4%
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 Black Hawk County is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.3% are children under 15, then 18.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.7% of the population, while another 21.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.3%
15 to 24
18.2%
25 to 44
24.7%
45 to 64
21.2%
Over 65
17.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 23,931 18.3% -0.1%
15 to 24 23,830 18.2% 0.8%
25 to 44 32,361 24.7% 0.1%
45 to 64 27,789 21.2% -0.6%
Over 65 23,138 17.7% 1.3%
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 Black Hawk County, 92.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 79.5% of locals are Caucasian, 9.3% are African American and 2.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.3% are Indigenous American, 0.7% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.1%
Non-citizens
3.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 121,016 92.3% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 5,370 4.1% -0.5%
Non-citizens 4,663 3.6% 7.1%
Racial breakdown
White
79.5%
Black or African American
9.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
2.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.7%
Two or more races
5.1%
Other
2.4%
Value Percent
White 104,148 79.5%
Black or African American 12,135 9.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 382 0.3%
Asian 3,565 2.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 964 0.7%
Two or more races 6,664 5.1%
Other 3,191 2.4%

Households in Black Hawk County

A peek inside Black Hawk County households

Black Hawk County has 54,563 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.2% are families, while the remaining 42.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
54,563
1.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
23,334
Family households
31,229
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 23,334 42.8% 1.9%
Family households 31,229 57.2% 1.3%
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 Black Hawk County

The housing landscape of Black Hawk County

Black Hawk County's housing consists of 58,991 units, with 69.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.5% 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 3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
58,991
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 41,150 69.8%
1 unit, attached 2,669 4.5%
2 units 1,694 2.9%
3 or 4 units 1,889 3.2%
5 to 9 units 2,952 5%
10 to 19 units 2,954 5%
20 to 49 units 1,195 2%
50 or more units 2,724 4.6%
Mobile home 1,759 3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 5 0%
Homes built since 2020
610
252.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Black Hawk County

In Black Hawk County, the median construction year is 1966. About 18.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 10,764 18.2% -0.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 4,234 7.2% 8.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 9,452 16% -1.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 7,829 13.3% -2.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 9,249 15.7% 1.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,447 5.8% 5.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4,134 7% -11.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,782 8.1% 5.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 4,490 7.6% -1.4%
Built in 2020 or later 610 1% 252.6%
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.

Black Hawk County occupancy rates

Out of the 54,563 occupied housing units in Black Hawk County, 66.2% are owner-occupied, while 33.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
54,563
1.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
18,424
Owner occupied
36,139
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 18,424 33.8% -1.1%
Owner occupied 36,139 66.2% 3.0%
Unoccupied housing units
7.5%
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.

Black Hawk County housing costs

Housing costs in Black Hawk County come to a median of $1,027 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $989.

Median housing costs per month
$1,027/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 Black Hawk County
$989/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 Black Hawk County

Black Hawk County education at a glance

About 34.6% of the population in Black Hawk County went to high school, while 24.3% pursued college studies. Another 11.4% earned an associate degree and 17.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,916 2.8% 26.1%
High school diploma 35,389 34.6% 0.1%
College diploma 24,881 24.3% -3.1%
Associate degree 11,681 11.4% -0.2%
Bachelor's degree 18,186 17.8% 1.5%
Graduate degree 9,252 9% 2.2%
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 Black Hawk County

How much people earn in Black Hawk County

The average annual household income in Black Hawk County was $89,163 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,417, reflecting a +2.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Black Hawk County
$89,163/year
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Black Hawk County
$66,417/year
2.8% year-over-year change

Black Hawk County income by age

In Black Hawk County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $73,894. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,976 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $47,903, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $57,493 in earnings. Overall, 85.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $47,903 5.2%
25 - 44 $73,894 3.9%
45 - 64 $76,976 1.5%
Over 65 $57,493 0.4%
Above poverty level
105,855
Below poverty level
18,307
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 105,855 85.3% -0.1%
Below poverty level 18,307 14.7% 1.4%

Employment in Black Hawk County

Workforce and job types in Black Hawk County

The job market in Black Hawk County is powered by 66,926 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.7% run their own businesses, 69.9% are employed by private companies, and 13.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
66,926
0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
48,680
Blue collar
18,246
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 48,680 72.7% 0.3%
Blue collar 18,246 27.3% 1.3%
Employer type
Self employees
7.7%
Private companies
69.9%
Governmental workers
13.1%
Not for profit companies
9.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 5,135 7.7% -2.4%
Private companies 46,773 69.9% 2.3%
Governmental workers 8,752 13.1% -4.5%
Not for profit companies 6,266 9.4% -1.5%
Unemployment rate
4.6%
-5.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Black Hawk County stands at 4.6%, 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 Black Hawk County

How people get around in Black Hawk County

Commuting methods vary: 86.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3% 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 57,221 86.9% 0.6%
Taxicab 16 0% 166.7%
Bus or trolleybus 123 0.2% -7.5%
Ferryboat 14 0% 250.0%
Motorcycle 42 0.1% 35.5%
Bicycle 303 0.5% 25.2%
Walk 1,996 3% -6.2%
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 Black Hawk County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50626 1,468 573 $84,306 $96,388
50629 2,082 800 $103,106 $135,191
50634 761 346 $79,583 $92,753
50643 3,027 1,056 $125,804 $132,584
50647 1,978 799 $104,063 $124,870
50648 4,269 1,629 $95,353 $106,108
50651 3,147 1,362 $88,333 $102,054
50612 369 135 $99,602 $94,091
50613 43,867 17,126 $78,503 $105,181
50667 899 336 $76,711 $93,101

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FAQs about Black Hawk County demographics 

What is the total population of Black Hawk County?

Black Hawk County has a total population of 131,049 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 +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Black Hawk County?

The gender ratio in Black Hawk County is as follows:
  • 49.2% males (64,411 residents)
  • 50.8% females (66,638 residents)

What is the median age in Black Hawk County?

The median age in Black Hawk County is 35.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Black Hawk County?

The age distribution in Black Hawk County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.3% (23,931 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 18.2% (23,830 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.7% (32,361 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.2% (27,789 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.7% (23,138 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Black Hawk County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Black Hawk County is as follows:
  • White: 79.5% (104,148 residents)
  • Black or African American: 9.3% (12,135 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (382 residents)
  • Asian: 2.7% (3,565 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.7% (964 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.1% (6,664 residents)
  • Other: 2.4% (3,191 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.3% of the population in Black Hawk County.

How many housing units are there in Black Hawk County?

There are 58,991 housing units in Black Hawk County, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Black Hawk County has a total of 54,563 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Black Hawk County?

Black Hawk County has a median household income of $66,417, representing a +2.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.4% in Black Hawk County, with a workforce of 66,926 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.7% (48,680 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.3% (18,246 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.7% (5,135 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.9% (46,773 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.1% (8,752 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.4% (6,266 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