Buffalo Center, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
911
-8.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$52,917/yr
7.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
541
-7.4% year-over-year change

Buffalo Center population

How many people live in Buffalo Center

Buffalo Center is home to 911 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.2% of Buffalo Center locals are male, and 50.8% are female.

Total population
911
-8.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.2%
448
Female
50.8%
463
Value Percent YoY change
Male 448 49.2% -9.7%
Female 463 50.8% -8.1%
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 Buffalo Center is 59, with the population distributed as follows: about 10.6% are children under 15, then 7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 13.5% of the population, while another 34.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 34% are 65 or older.

Median age
59.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
10.6%
15 to 24
7%
25 to 44
13.5%
45 to 64
34.8%
Over 65
34%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 97 10.6% -6.7%
15 to 24 64 7% -43.4%
25 to 44 123 13.5% 6.0%
45 to 64 317 34.8% -7.8%
Over 65 310 34% -4.0%
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

At the same time, 0.9% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
99.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0%
Non-citizens
0.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 903 99.1% -8.2%
Non-citizens 8 0.9% 33.3%
Racial breakdown
White
97%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 884 97%
Two or more races 27 3%

Households in Buffalo Center

A peek inside Buffalo Center households

Buffalo Center has 478 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 54.8% are families, while the remaining 45.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
478
-5.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
216
Family households
262
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 216 45.2% -1.4%
Family households 262 54.8% -8.1%
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 Buffalo Center

The housing landscape of Buffalo Center

Buffalo Center's housing consists of 541 units, with 80.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.6% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
541
-7.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 434 80.2%
1 unit, attached 3 0.6%
3 or 4 units 80 14.8%
5 to 9 units 24 4.4%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Buffalo Center

In Buffalo Center, the median construction year is 1959. About 23.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 15.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 129 23.8% -11.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 86 15.9% -2.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 62 11.5% -26.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 90 16.6% -10.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 157 29% 3.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 9 1.7% 28.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4 0.7% 0.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1 0.2% N/A
Built between 2010 and 2019 3 0.6% 0.0%
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.

Buffalo Center occupancy rates

Out of the 478 occupied housing units in Buffalo Center, 72.6% are owner-occupied, while 27.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
478
-5.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
131
Owner occupied
347
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 131 27.4% -6.4%
Owner occupied 347 72.6% -4.7%
Unoccupied housing units
11.6%
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.

Buffalo Center housing costs

Housing costs in Buffalo Center come to a median of $637 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $640.

Median housing costs per month
$637/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 Buffalo Center
$640/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 Buffalo Center

Buffalo Center education at a glance

About 42.6% of the population in Buffalo Center went to high school, while 16.9% pursued college studies. Another 12.8% earned an associate degree and 23.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2 0.2% -77.8%
High school diploma 339 42.6% -11.3%
College diploma 134 16.9% -14.7%
Associate degree 102 12.8% 13.3%
Bachelor's degree 188 23.6% -0.5%
Graduate degree 30 3.8% 3.5%
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 Buffalo Center

How much people earn in Buffalo Center

The average annual household income in Buffalo Center was $68,053 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -13.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $52,917, reflecting a +7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Buffalo Center
$68,053/year
-13.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Buffalo Center
$52,917/year
7.0% year-over-year change

Buffalo Center income by age

In Buffalo Center, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $74,500. Overall, 91.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $74,500 3.8%
Over 65 $58,375 16.8%
Above poverty level
803
Below poverty level
72
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 803 91.8% -9.1%
Below poverty level 72 8.2% -10.0%

Average renter income in Buffalo Center

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Buffalo Center, their median household income was $19,750 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 38.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$19,750
Rent-to-income ratio
38.9%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Buffalo Center

Workforce and job types in Buffalo Center

The job market in Buffalo Center is powered by 384 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 63.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 36.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 19.5% run their own businesses, 59.4% are employed by private companies, and 15.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
384
-11.3% year-over-year change
White collar
243
Blue collar
141
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 243 63.3% -18.5%
Blue collar 141 36.7% 4.4%
Employer type
Self employees
19.5%
Private companies
59.4%
Governmental workers
15.1%
Not for profit companies
6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 75 19.5% -15.7%
Private companies 228 59.4% -10.9%
Governmental workers 58 15.1% -14.7%
Not for profit companies 23 6% 15.0%
Unemployment rate
10.9%
6.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Buffalo Center stands at 10.9%, 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 Buffalo Center

How people get around in Buffalo Center

Commuting methods vary: 73.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 24.5% 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 280 73.1% -8.2%
Taxicab 2 0.5% N/A
Walk 94 24.5% -13.0%
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 Buffalo Center by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50424 1,441 688 $59,091 $69,668

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FAQs about Buffalo Center demographics 

What is the total population of Buffalo Center?

Buffalo Center has a total population of 911 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 -8.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Buffalo Center?

The gender ratio in Buffalo Center is as follows:
  • 49.2% males (448 residents)
  • 50.8% females (463 residents)

What is the median age in Buffalo Center?

The median age in Buffalo Center is 59.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Buffalo Center?

The age distribution in Buffalo Center is as follows:
  • Under 15: 10.6% (97 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 7% (64 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 13.5% (123 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 34.8% (317 residents)
  • Over 65: 34% (310 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Buffalo Center?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Buffalo Center is as follows:
  • White: 97% (884 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3% (27 residents)
  • Other: 0% (0 residents)

What percentage of the population in Buffalo Center are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 99.1% of the population in Buffalo Center.

How many housing units are there in Buffalo Center?

There are 541 housing units in Buffalo Center, reflecting a -7.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Buffalo Center and what is the average household size?

Buffalo Center has a total of 478 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Buffalo Center?

Buffalo Center has a median household income of $52,917, representing a +7.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Buffalo Center?

The employment rate is 89.1% in Buffalo Center, with a workforce of 384 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 63.3% (243 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 36.7% (141 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 19.5% (75 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.4% (228 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.1% (58 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6% (23 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