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

Total population
137,264
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$70,424/yr
3.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
64,423
1.2% year-over-year change

Cedar Rapids population

How many people live in Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids is home to 137,264 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Cedar Rapids locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
137,264
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
68,045
Female
50.4%
69,219
Value Percent YoY change
Male 68,045 49.6% 0.7%
Female 69,219 50.4% -0.1%
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 Cedar Rapids is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 17% are children under 15, then 14.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.3% of the population, while another 23.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
17%
15 to 24
14.7%
25 to 44
28.3%
45 to 64
23.3%
Over 65
16.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 23,410 17% -2.8%
15 to 24 20,147 14.7% 1.6%
25 to 44 38,817 28.3% -0.4%
45 to 64 31,923 23.3% 0.6%
Over 65 22,967 16.7% 3.3%
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 Rapids, 92% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 79.1% of locals are Caucasian, 8.7% are African American and 2.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.8%
Non-citizens
3.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 126,215 92% 0.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 6,578 4.8% 3.0%
Non-citizens 4,471 3.3% 4.1%
Racial breakdown
White
79.1%
Black or African American
8.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
2.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.8%
Other
1.5%
Value Percent
White 108,591 79.1%
Black or African American 11,883 8.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 380 0.3%
Asian 3,596 2.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 13 0%
Two or more races 10,732 7.8%
Other 2,069 1.5%

Households in Cedar Rapids

A peek inside Cedar Rapids households

Cedar Rapids has 59,351 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 56.2% are families, while the remaining 43.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
59,351
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
25,996
Family households
33,355
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 25,996 43.8% 1.7%
Family households 33,355 56.2% 0.2%
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 Cedar Rapids

The housing landscape of Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids's housing consists of 64,423 units, with 61.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.5% 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 3.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
64,423
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 39,854 61.9%
1 unit, attached 2,908 4.5%
2 units 962 1.5%
3 or 4 units 3,291 5.1%
5 to 9 units 3,292 5.1%
10 to 19 units 5,723 8.9%
20 to 49 units 3,727 5.8%
50 or more units 2,517 3.9%
Mobile home 2,149 3.3%
Homes built since 2020
783
58.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Cedar Rapids

In Cedar Rapids, the median construction year is 1974. About 14.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 9,198 14.3% -2.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,689 4.2% -2.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 7,647 11.9% -3.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 9,081 14.1% 2.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 9,535 14.8% 2.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 5,102 7.9% 7.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 6,983 10.8% 0.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 7,593 11.8% 5.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 5,812 9% -4.5%
Built in 2020 or later 783 1.2% 58.8%
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.

Cedar Rapids occupancy rates

Out of the 59,351 occupied housing units in Cedar Rapids, 68.5% are owner-occupied, while 31.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
59,351
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
18,692
Owner occupied
40,659
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 18,692 31.5% -0.1%
Owner occupied 40,659 68.5% 1.3%
Unoccupied housing units
7.9%
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.

Cedar Rapids housing costs

Housing costs in Cedar Rapids come to a median of $1,109 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $967.

Median housing costs per month
$1,109/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 Rapids
$967/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 Rapids

Cedar Rapids education at a glance

About 33.4% of the population in Cedar Rapids went to high school, while 24.1% pursued college studies. Another 11.2% earned an associate degree and 20.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,516 1.4% 0.8%
High school diploma 36,348 33.4% 5.4%
College diploma 26,195 24.1% -1.0%
Associate degree 12,194 11.2% -5.4%
Bachelor's degree 22,208 20.4% 0.7%
Graduate degree 10,198 9.4% 2.6%
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 Cedar Rapids

How much people earn in Cedar Rapids

The average annual household income in Cedar Rapids was $93,772 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $70,424, reflecting a +3.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Cedar Rapids
$93,772/year
3.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Cedar Rapids
$70,424/year
3.8% year-over-year change

Cedar Rapids income by age

In Cedar Rapids, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $72,841. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $85,599 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,827, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $57,459 in earnings. Overall, 89.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,827 9.9%
25 - 44 $72,841 0.6%
45 - 64 $85,599 4.9%
Over 65 $57,459 8.5%
Above poverty level
117,718
Below poverty level
14,356
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 117,718 89.1% 1.2%
Below poverty level 14,356 10.9% -7.3%

Average renter income in Cedar Rapids

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Cedar Rapids, their median household income was $37,253 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 31.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$37,253
Rent-to-income ratio
31.1%
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 Cedar Rapids

Workforce and job types in Cedar Rapids

The job market in Cedar Rapids is powered by 74,082 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.6% run their own businesses, 74.1% are employed by private companies, and 11.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
74,082
1.4% year-over-year change
White collar
55,405
Blue collar
18,677
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 55,405 74.8% 1.7%
Blue collar 18,677 25.2% 0.5%
Employer type
Self employees
6.6%
Private companies
74.1%
Governmental workers
11.1%
Not for profit companies
8.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,930 6.6% 7.7%
Private companies 54,888 74.1% 0.3%
Governmental workers 8,206 11.1% 7.0%
Not for profit companies 6,058 8.2% -0.4%
Unemployment rate
3.6%
-7.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Cedar Rapids stands at 3.6%, 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 Cedar Rapids

How people get around in Cedar Rapids

Commuting methods vary: 83.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.2% 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 60,506 83.2% 1.2%
Taxicab 36 0% -2.7%
Bus or trolleybus 479 0.7% 18.0%
Ferryboat 71 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 136 0.2% 60.0%
Bicycle 146 0.2% -41.4%
Walk 1,618 2.2% 2.6%
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 Rapids by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
52401 2,181 1,339 $35,060 $49,173
52402 42,938 18,886 $73,439 $94,782
52403 22,551 9,875 $74,703 $115,663
52404 42,958 18,170 $61,870 $79,427
52405 26,526 11,532 $70,123 $93,496
52411 8,342 2,872 $170,491 $246,591

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FAQs about Cedar Rapids demographics 

What is the total population of Cedar Rapids?

Cedar Rapids has a total population of 137,264 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 Cedar Rapids?

The gender ratio in Cedar Rapids is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (68,045 residents)
  • 50.4% females (69,219 residents)

What is the median age in Cedar Rapids?

The median age in Cedar Rapids is 37.3.

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

The age distribution in Cedar Rapids is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17% (23,410 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.7% (20,147 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.3% (38,817 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.3% (31,923 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.7% (22,967 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Cedar Rapids?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Cedar Rapids is as follows:
  • White: 79.1% (108,591 residents)
  • Black or African American: 8.7% (11,883 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (380 residents)
  • Asian: 2.6% (3,596 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (13 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.8% (10,732 residents)
  • Other: 1.5% (2,069 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92% of the population in Cedar Rapids.

How many housing units are there in Cedar Rapids?

There are 64,423 housing units in Cedar Rapids, reflecting a +1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Cedar Rapids has a total of 59,351 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Cedar Rapids?

Cedar Rapids has a median household income of $70,424, representing a +3.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.4% in Cedar Rapids, with a workforce of 74,082 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.8% (55,405 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.2% (18,677 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.6% (4,930 residents)
  • Private companies: 74.1% (54,888 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.1% (8,206 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.2% (6,058 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