Cedar County, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
18,349
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$80,602/yr
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,300
0.8% year-over-year change

Cedar County population

How many people live in Cedar County

Cedar County is home to 18,349 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.8% of Cedar County locals are male, and 50.2% are female.

Total population
18,349
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.8%
9,140
Female
50.2%
9,209
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,140 49.8% -0.3%
Female 9,209 50.2% -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 Cedar County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.9% are children under 15, then 11% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.5% of the population, while another 27.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21% are 65 or older.

Median age
44
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.9%
15 to 24
11%
25 to 44
23.5%
45 to 64
27.5%
Over 65
21%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,109 16.9% -2.7%
15 to 24 2,018 11% 0.9%
25 to 44 4,319 23.5% 0.1%
45 to 64 5,044 27.5% -1.6%
Over 65 3,859 21% 1.9%
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 Cedar County, 98.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 94% of locals are Caucasian, 0.4% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.8%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 18,129 98.8% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 150 0.8% 41.5%
Non-citizens 70 0.4% -58.8%
Racial breakdown
White
94%
Black or African American
0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.6%
Other
0.4%
Value Percent
White 17,238 94%
Black or African American 79 0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 13 0.1%
Asian 96 0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 10 0%
Two or more races 840 4.6%
Other 73 0.4%

Households in Cedar County

A peek inside Cedar County households

Cedar County has 7,622 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 68.1% are families, while the remaining 31.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,622
1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,433
Family households
5,189
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,433 31.9% -1.5%
Family households 5,189 68.1% 2.4%
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 Cedar County

The housing landscape of Cedar County

Cedar County's housing consists of 8,300 units, with 82.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.8% 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 4.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,300
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,820 82.2%
1 unit, attached 395 4.8%
2 units 102 1.2%
3 or 4 units 277 3.3%
5 to 9 units 173 2.1%
10 to 19 units 113 1.4%
20 to 49 units 44 0.5%
Mobile home 356 4.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 20 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
199
37.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Cedar County

In Cedar County, the median construction year is 1965. About 34.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,895 34.9% -5.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 394 4.8% -6.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 588 7.1% 7.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 515 6.2% 6.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,207 14.5% -2.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 410 4.9% 7.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 606 7.3% -1.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 915 11% 0.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 571 6.9% 27.2%
Built in 2020 or later 199 2.4% 37.2%
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.

Cedar County occupancy rates

Out of the 7,622 occupied housing units in Cedar County, 81.5% are owner-occupied, while 18.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,622
1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,412
Owner occupied
6,210
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,412 18.5% -2.4%
Owner occupied 6,210 81.5% 1.9%
Unoccupied housing units
8.2%
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.

Cedar County housing costs

Housing costs in Cedar County come to a median of $1,073 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $879.

Median housing costs per month
$1,073/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 Cedar County
$879/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 Cedar County

Cedar County education at a glance

About 42.5% of the population in Cedar County went to high school, while 19.8% pursued college studies. Another 13.4% earned an associate degree and 17.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 184 1.3% -3.7%
High school diploma 6,150 42.5% -4.6%
College diploma 2,859 19.8% 3.0%
Associate degree 1,945 13.4% -6.0%
Bachelor's degree 2,567 17.7% 14.4%
Graduate degree 769 5.3% 2.8%
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 Cedar County

How much people earn in Cedar County

The average annual household income in Cedar County was $97,864 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $80,602, reflecting a +1.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Cedar County
$97,864/year
5.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Cedar County
$80,602/year
1.9% year-over-year change

Cedar County income by age

In Cedar County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $94,260. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $85,806 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $52,614, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $58,710 in earnings. Overall, 92.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $52,614 2.1%
25 - 44 $94,260 -2.5%
45 - 64 $85,806 -1.0%
Over 65 $58,710 6.3%
Above poverty level
16,537
Below poverty level
1,321
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 16,537 92.6% -0.4%
Below poverty level 1,321 7.4% 1.7%

Employment in Cedar County

Workforce and job types in Cedar County

The job market in Cedar County is powered by 9,462 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.8% run their own businesses, 63.6% are employed by private companies, and 17.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,462
1.0% year-over-year change
White collar
6,597
Blue collar
2,865
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,597 69.7% 2.1%
Blue collar 2,865 30.3% -1.3%
Employer type
Self employees
12.8%
Private companies
63.6%
Governmental workers
17.5%
Not for profit companies
6.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,206 12.8% 4.9%
Private companies 6,016 63.6% 0.3%
Governmental workers 1,656 17.5% 4.1%
Not for profit companies 584 6.2% -6.7%
Unemployment rate
2.2%
-23.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Cedar County stands at 2.2%, 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 Cedar County

How people get around in Cedar County

Commuting methods vary: 84.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.9% 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 7,773 84.1% -2.4%
Taxicab 13 0.1% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 15 0.2% 15.4%
Motorcycle 17 0.2% 6.2%
Bicycle 58 0.6% N/A
Walk 173 1.9% 7.5%
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 Cedar County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
52320 1,425 516 $62,222 $73,585
52337 729 326 $66,875 $85,894
52358 3,598 1,488 $91,686 $108,095
52216 1,551 638 $67,857 $80,168
52253 2,622 1,050 $104,821 $125,084
52255 980 509 $71,250 $80,567
52306 1,642 653 $61,875 $79,549
52720 964 410 $73,571 $98,612
52721 809 312 $82,143 $94,285
52747 2,160 851 $82,313 $117,634

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FAQs about Cedar County demographics 

What is the total population of Cedar County?

Cedar County has a total population of 18,349 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 -0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Cedar County?

The gender ratio in Cedar County is as follows:
  • 49.8% males (9,140 residents)
  • 50.2% females (9,209 residents)

What is the median age in Cedar County?

The median age in Cedar County is 44.

What is the age distribution of the population in Cedar County?

The age distribution in Cedar County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.9% (3,109 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11% (2,018 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.5% (4,319 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.5% (5,044 residents)
  • Over 65: 21% (3,859 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Cedar County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Cedar County is as follows:
  • White: 94% (17,238 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.4% (79 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (13 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (96 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (10 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.6% (840 residents)
  • Other: 0.4% (73 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.8% of the population in Cedar County.

How many housing units are there in Cedar County?

There are 8,300 housing units in Cedar County, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Cedar County has a total of 7,622 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Cedar County?

Cedar County has a median household income of $80,602, representing a +1.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.8% in Cedar County, with a workforce of 9,462 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.7% (6,597 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.3% (2,865 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.8% (1,206 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.6% (6,016 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.5% (1,656 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.2% (584 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