Buffalo, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
1,097
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$69,728/yr
-6.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
552
5.5% year-over-year change

Buffalo population

How many people live in Buffalo

Buffalo is home to 1,097 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52.2% of Buffalo locals are male, and 47.8% are female.

Total population
1,097
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52.2%
573
Female
47.8%
524
Value Percent YoY change
Male 573 52.2% 0.3%
Female 524 47.8% 1.0%
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 is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.6% are children under 15, then 13.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.5% of the population, while another 28.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17% are 65 or older.

Median age
42
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.6%
15 to 24
13.1%
25 to 44
21.5%
45 to 64
28.7%
Over 65
17%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 215 19.6% -0.9%
15 to 24 144 13.1% 16.1%
25 to 44 236 21.5% -8.5%
45 to 64 315 28.7% 2.6%
Over 65 187 17% 1.6%
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 Buffalo, 98.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.1% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 1.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.7%
Non-citizens
0.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 1,077 98.2% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 19 1.7% 5.6%
Non-citizens 1 0.1% 0.0%
Racial breakdown
White
89.8%
Black or African American
0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
1.5%
Other
8%
Value Percent
White 985 89.8%
Black or African American 8 0.7%
Two or more races 16 1.5%
Other 88 8%

Households in Buffalo

A peek inside Buffalo households

Buffalo has 481 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 56.1% are families, while the remaining 43.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
481
1.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
211
Family households
270
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 211 43.9% 7.1%
Family households 270 56.1% -2.5%
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

The housing landscape of Buffalo

Buffalo's housing consists of 552 units, with 94.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space.

Housing units
552
5.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 522 94.6%
2 units 4 0.7%
3 or 4 units 4 0.7%
10 to 19 units 14 2.5%
50 or more units 8 1.4%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Buffalo

In Buffalo, the median construction year is 1958. About 31.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.8% 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 173 31.3% -2.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 43 7.8% -33.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 76 13.8% 1.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 98 17.8% 11.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 98 17.8% 81.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 27 4.9% -12.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 11 2% 57.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 6 1.1% 100.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 20 3.6% -9.1%
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 occupancy rates

Out of the 481 occupied housing units in Buffalo, 76.3% are owner-occupied, while 23.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
481
1.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
114
Owner occupied
367
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 114 23.7% 10.7%
Owner occupied 367 76.3% -1.1%
Unoccupied housing units
12.9%
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 housing costs

Housing costs in Buffalo come to a median of $847 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $804.

Median housing costs per month
$847/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
$804/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

Buffalo education at a glance

About 33.4% of the population in Buffalo went to high school, while 35.7% pursued college studies. Another 10.7% earned an associate degree and 11.8% 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 36 4.5% -14.3%
High school diploma 265 33.4% 0.8%
College diploma 283 35.7% -8.4%
Associate degree 85 10.7% 1.2%
Bachelor's degree 94 11.8% 40.3%
Graduate degree 30 3.8% 20.0%
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 Buffalo

How much people earn in Buffalo

The average annual household income in Buffalo was $75,822 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $69,728, reflecting a -6.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Buffalo
$75,822/year
-0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Buffalo
$69,728/year
-6.8% year-over-year change

Buffalo income by age

In Buffalo, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $62,361. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $87,958 overall. Overall, 81.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $62,361 -3.3%
45 - 64 $87,958 3.4%
Over 65 $46,932 -13.4%
Above poverty level
888
Below poverty level
206
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 888 81.2% -1.4%
Below poverty level 206 18.8% 15.7%

Employment in Buffalo

Workforce and job types in Buffalo

The job market in Buffalo is powered by 554 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5% run their own businesses, 81.8% are employed by private companies, and 9.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
554
-3.0% year-over-year change
White collar
395
Blue collar
159
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 395 71.3% -0.5%
Blue collar 159 28.7% -8.6%
Employer type
Self employees
5%
Private companies
81.8%
Governmental workers
9.4%
Not for profit companies
3.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 28 5% 7.7%
Private companies 453 81.8% -5.4%
Governmental workers 52 9.4% 36.8%
Not for profit companies 21 3.8% -25.0%
Unemployment rate
2.1%
9.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Buffalo stands at 2.1%, 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

How people get around in Buffalo

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 506 92.3% -6.3%
Bus or trolleybus 1 0.2% N/A
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 by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
52728 984 436 $69,239 $73,307

Explore more communities

FAQs about Buffalo demographics 

What is the total population of Buffalo?

Buffalo has a total population of 1,097 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 +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Buffalo?

The gender ratio in Buffalo is as follows:
  • 52.2% males (573 residents)
  • 47.8% females (524 residents)

What is the median age in Buffalo?

The median age in Buffalo is 42.

What is the age distribution of the population in Buffalo?

The age distribution in Buffalo is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.6% (215 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.1% (144 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.5% (236 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.7% (315 residents)
  • Over 65: 17% (187 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Buffalo?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Buffalo is as follows:
  • White: 89.8% (985 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.7% (8 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: 1.5% (16 residents)
  • Other: 8% (88 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.2% of the population in Buffalo.

How many housing units are there in Buffalo?

There are 552 housing units in Buffalo, reflecting a +5.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Buffalo has a total of 481 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Buffalo?

Buffalo has a median household income of $69,728, representing a -6.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.9% in Buffalo, with a workforce of 554 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.3% (395 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.7% (159 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5% (28 residents)
  • Private companies: 81.8% (453 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.4% (52 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 3.8% (21 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