Buena Vista County, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
20,753
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$71,719/yr
7.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,293
0.6% year-over-year change

Buena Vista County population

How many people live in Buena Vista County

Buena Vista County is home to 20,753 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.8% of Buena Vista County locals are male, and 49.2% are female.

Total population
20,753
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.8%
10,544
Female
49.2%
10,209
Value Percent YoY change
Male 10,544 50.8% -1.1%
Female 10,209 49.2% 1.8%
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 Buena Vista County is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.3% are children under 15, then 15.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.2% of the population, while another 22.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.3%
15 to 24
15.8%
25 to 44
24.2%
45 to 64
22.4%
Over 65
16.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,427 21.3% -1.0%
15 to 24 3,275 15.8% 4.2%
25 to 44 5,021 24.2% 0.2%
45 to 64 4,657 22.4% -1.9%
Over 65 3,373 16.2% 1.7%
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 Buena Vista County, 77.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 14.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 60% of locals are Caucasian, 3.3% are African American and 9.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.4% are Indigenous American, 2.9% are Pacific Islanders, while 11.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 12.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
77.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.4%
Non-citizens
14.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,068 77.4% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,750 8.4% -9.9%
Non-citizens 2,935 14.1% 5.0%
Racial breakdown
White
60%
Black or African American
3.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
9.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
2.9%
Two or more races
12.6%
Other
11.3%
Value Percent
White 12,457 60%
Black or African American 679 3.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 85 0.4%
Asian 1,982 9.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 608 2.9%
Two or more races 2,604 12.6%
Other 2,338 11.3%

Households in Buena Vista County

A peek inside Buena Vista County households

Buena Vista County has 7,546 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 63.5% are families, while the remaining 36.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,546
0.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,753
Family households
4,793
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,753 36.5% -7.8%
Family households 4,793 63.5% 5.2%
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 Buena Vista County

The housing landscape of Buena Vista County

Buena Vista County's housing consists of 8,293 units, with 76.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.6% 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 2.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,293
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,336 76.4%
1 unit, attached 303 3.6%
2 units 293 3.5%
3 or 4 units 201 2.4%
5 to 9 units 469 5.7%
10 to 19 units 204 2.5%
20 to 49 units 297 3.6%
Mobile home 190 2.3%
Homes built since 2020
30
130.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Buena Vista County

In Buena Vista County, the median construction year is 1964. About 28.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 2.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,329 28.1% -2.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 427 5.2% 17.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 948 11.4% -4.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 995 12% -6.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,443 17.4% 24.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 700 8.4% -22.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 442 5.3% -5.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 201 2.4% 3.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 778 9.4% 12.8%
Built in 2020 or later 30 0.4% 130.8%
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.

Buena Vista County occupancy rates

Out of the 7,546 occupied housing units in Buena Vista County, 73.2% are owner-occupied, while 26.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,546
0.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,021
Owner occupied
5,525
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,021 26.8% -2.7%
Owner occupied 5,525 73.2% 1.1%
Unoccupied housing units
9.0%
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.

Buena Vista County housing costs

Housing costs in Buena Vista County come to a median of $902 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $894.

Median housing costs per month
$902/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 Buena Vista County
$894/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 Buena Vista County

Buena Vista County education at a glance

About 40.1% of the population in Buena Vista County went to high school, while 18.5% pursued college studies. Another 11.3% earned an associate degree and 13.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,583 10.4% 2.3%
High school diploma 6,102 40.1% 2.5%
College diploma 2,820 18.5% -6.8%
Associate degree 1,726 11.3% 5.4%
Bachelor's degree 2,020 13.3% -3.3%
Graduate degree 983 6.4% 8.0%
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 Buena Vista County

How much people earn in Buena Vista County

The average annual household income in Buena Vista County was $94,361 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $71,719, reflecting a +7.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Buena Vista County
$94,361/year
5.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Buena Vista County
$71,719/year
7.7% year-over-year change

Buena Vista County income by age

In Buena Vista County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $81,587. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,568 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $57,944, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $53,036 in earnings. Overall, 92.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $57,944 16.6%
25 - 44 $81,587 22.0%
45 - 64 $76,568 -4.2%
Over 65 $53,036 3.6%
Above poverty level
17,926
Below poverty level
1,538
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 17,926 92.1% 1.1%
Below poverty level 1,538 7.9% -5.2%

Employment in Buena Vista County

Workforce and job types in Buena Vista County

The job market in Buena Vista County is powered by 10,317 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 56.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 43.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.7% run their own businesses, 70.5% are employed by private companies, and 10.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
10,317
0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
5,793
Blue collar
4,524
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,793 56.2% 5.0%
Blue collar 4,524 43.8% -4.8%
Employer type
Self employees
10.7%
Private companies
70.5%
Governmental workers
10.1%
Not for profit companies
8.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,106 10.7% 1.6%
Private companies 7,277 70.5% 0.6%
Governmental workers 1,043 10.1% -12.0%
Not for profit companies 891 8.6% 17.4%
Unemployment rate
5.6%
12.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Buena Vista County stands at 5.6%, 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 Buena Vista County

How people get around in Buena Vista County

Commuting methods vary: 88.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.4% 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 9,026 88.9% 2.6%
Taxicab 6 0.1% -33.3%
Bus or trolleybus 57 0.6% N/A
Motorcycle 4 0% -20.0%
Bicycle 26 0.3% -18.8%
Walk 446 4.4% -25.4%
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 Buena Vista County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50510 1,042 449 $76,397 $106,192
50565 380 163 $51,875 $64,210
50568 1,384 524 $75,250 $79,798
50576 277 136 $67,500 $98,385
50585 1,080 438 $71,346 $87,913
50588 13,431 4,630 $70,906 $94,866
51002 2,787 1,053 $70,625 $89,819
51005 1,561 645 $75,938 $89,717
51033 421 184 $60,625 $81,553
51047 693 314 $101,000 $174,684

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FAQs about Buena Vista County demographics 

What is the total population of Buena Vista County?

Buena Vista County has a total population of 20,753 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 Buena Vista County?

The gender ratio in Buena Vista County is as follows:
  • 50.8% males (10,544 residents)
  • 49.2% females (10,209 residents)

What is the median age in Buena Vista County?

The median age in Buena Vista County is 35.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Buena Vista County?

The age distribution in Buena Vista County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.3% (4,427 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.8% (3,275 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.2% (5,021 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.4% (4,657 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.2% (3,373 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Buena Vista County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Buena Vista County is as follows:
  • White: 60% (12,457 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.3% (679 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (85 residents)
  • Asian: 9.6% (1,982 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 2.9% (608 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.6% (2,604 residents)
  • Other: 11.3% (2,338 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 77.4% of the population in Buena Vista County.

How many housing units are there in Buena Vista County?

There are 8,293 housing units in Buena Vista County, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Buena Vista County has a total of 7,546 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Buena Vista County?

Buena Vista County has a median household income of $71,719, representing a +7.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.4% in Buena Vista County, with a workforce of 10,317 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 56.2% (5,793 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 43.8% (4,524 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.7% (1,106 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.5% (7,277 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.1% (1,043 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.6% (891 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