Burlington, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
23,728
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$59,000/yr
6.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
12,296
-1.7% year-over-year change

Burlington population

How many people live in Burlington

Burlington is home to 23,728 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.7% of Burlington locals are male, and 51.3% are female.

Total population
23,728
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.7%
11,562
Female
51.3%
12,166
Value Percent YoY change
Male 11,562 48.7% -0.1%
Female 12,166 51.3% -0.5%
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 Burlington is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 18% are children under 15, then 11% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25% of the population, while another 24.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
18%
15 to 24
11%
25 to 44
25%
45 to 64
24.5%
Over 65
21.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,267 18% 5.8%
15 to 24 2,605 11% -11.6%
25 to 44 5,945 25% 5.6%
45 to 64 5,804 24.5% -1.9%
Over 65 5,107 21.5% -3.2%
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 Burlington, 96% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 82.1% of locals are Caucasian, 6.6% are African American and 1.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.9%
Non-citizens
2.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 22,779 96% -0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 456 1.9% 20.9%
Non-citizens 493 2.1% -2.8%
Racial breakdown
White
82.1%
Black or African American
6.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.4%
Other
0.8%
Value Percent
White 19,488 82.1%
Black or African American 1,579 6.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 125 0.5%
Asian 360 1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1 0%
Two or more races 1,994 8.4%
Other 181 0.8%

Households in Burlington

A peek inside Burlington households

Burlington has 11,070 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.8% are families, while the remaining 42.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
11,070
-1.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,671
Family households
6,399
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,671 42.2% -5.7%
Family households 6,399 57.8% 1.4%
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 Burlington

The housing landscape of Burlington

Burlington's housing consists of 12,296 units, with 78.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.4% 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 1.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
12,296
-1.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 9,707 78.9%
1 unit, attached 289 2.4%
2 units 238 1.9%
3 or 4 units 736 6%
5 to 9 units 332 2.7%
10 to 19 units 360 2.9%
20 to 49 units 143 1.2%
50 or more units 312 2.5%
Mobile home 179 1.5%
Homes built since 2020
22
144.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Burlington

In Burlington, the median construction year is 1951. About 40.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 4,931 40.1% -4.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,021 8.3% 11.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,460 11.9% -9.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,287 10.5% 17.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,258 10.2% 12.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 446 3.6% -19.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 792 6.4% -3.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 473 3.8% -23.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 606 4.9% -0.8%
Built in 2020 or later 22 0.2% 144.4%
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.

Burlington occupancy rates

Out of the 11,070 occupied housing units in Burlington, 70.6% are owner-occupied, while 29.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
11,070
-1.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,250
Owner occupied
7,820
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,250 29.4% -7.8%
Owner occupied 7,820 70.6% 1.1%
Unoccupied housing units
10.0%
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.

Burlington housing costs

Housing costs in Burlington come to a median of $893 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $924.

Median housing costs per month
$893/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 Burlington
$924/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 Burlington

Burlington education at a glance

About 41.7% of the population in Burlington went to high school, while 22.7% pursued college studies. Another 13.2% earned an associate degree and 14.7% 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 244 1.3% -17.0%
High school diploma 7,675 41.7% -5.4%
College diploma 4,186 22.7% 3.7%
Associate degree 2,427 13.2% 5.9%
Bachelor's degree 2,701 14.7% -1.4%
Graduate degree 1,183 6.4% -7.6%
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 Burlington

How much people earn in Burlington

The average annual household income in Burlington was $74,863 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $59,000, reflecting a +6.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Burlington
$74,863/year
-1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Burlington
$59,000/year
6.7% year-over-year change

Burlington income by age

In Burlington, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $71,497. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $68,657 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $29,384, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $39,835 in earnings. Overall, 87% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $29,384 0.9%
25 - 44 $71,497 12.1%
45 - 64 $68,657 -2.0%
Over 65 $39,835 0.1%
Above poverty level
20,379
Below poverty level
3,031
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 20,379 87% 3.1%
Below poverty level 3,031 13% -15.6%

Average renter income in Burlington

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Burlington, their median household income was $25,838 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 42.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$25,838
Rent-to-income ratio
42.9%
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 Burlington

Workforce and job types in Burlington

The job market in Burlington is powered by 11,263 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.8% run their own businesses, 71.5% are employed by private companies, and 12% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
11,263
-0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
8,172
Blue collar
3,091
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 8,172 72.6% 2.4%
Blue collar 3,091 27.4% -6.2%
Employer type
Self employees
6.8%
Private companies
71.5%
Governmental workers
12%
Not for profit companies
9.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 771 6.8% -10.1%
Private companies 8,050 71.5% 0.6%
Governmental workers 1,356 12% -1.7%
Not for profit companies 1,086 9.6% 4.8%
Unemployment rate
3.9%
-9.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Burlington stands at 3.9%, 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 Burlington

How people get around in Burlington

In Burlington, the average commute time is 16 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 91.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
16 min
-5.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 10,229 91.5% 0.8%
Taxicab 62 0.6% -48.3%
Bus or trolleybus 125 1.1% 52.4%
Bicycle 14 0.1% N/A
Walk 135 1.2% -20.1%
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 Burlington by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
52601 27,341 12,703 $60,983 $78,411

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FAQs about Burlington demographics 

What is the total population of Burlington?

Burlington has a total population of 23,728 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 Burlington?

The gender ratio in Burlington is as follows:
  • 48.7% males (11,562 residents)
  • 51.3% females (12,166 residents)

What is the median age in Burlington?

The median age in Burlington is 42.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Burlington?

The age distribution in Burlington is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18% (4,267 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11% (2,605 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25% (5,945 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.5% (5,804 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.5% (5,107 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Burlington?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Burlington is as follows:
  • White: 82.1% (19,488 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.6% (1,579 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (125 residents)
  • Asian: 1.5% (360 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (1 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.4% (1,994 residents)
  • Other: 0.8% (181 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96% of the population in Burlington.

How many housing units are there in Burlington?

There are 12,296 housing units in Burlington, reflecting a -1.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Burlington has a total of 11,070 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Burlington?

Burlington has a median household income of $59,000, representing a +6.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.1% in Burlington, with a workforce of 11,263 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.6% (8,172 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.4% (3,091 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.8% (771 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.5% (8,050 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12% (1,356 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.6% (1,086 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