Clarinda, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
5,353
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$46,348/yr
-8.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,295
1.5% year-over-year change

Clarinda population

How many people live in Clarinda

Clarinda is home to 5,353 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 55.9% of Clarinda locals are male, and 44.1% are female.

Total population
5,353
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
55.9%
2,992
Female
44.1%
2,361
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,992 55.9% 0.7%
Female 2,361 44.1% -1.4%
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 Clarinda is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.7% are children under 15, then 11% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.6% of the population, while another 19.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.7%
15 to 24
11%
25 to 44
30.6%
45 to 64
19.8%
Over 65
22.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 839 15.7% -2.6%
15 to 24 589 11% 3.1%
25 to 44 1,638 30.6% 3.1%
45 to 64 1,060 19.8% -8.9%
Over 65 1,227 22.9% 3.7%
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 Clarinda, 97.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 85.4% of locals are Caucasian, 4.2% are African American and 1.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,225 97.6% 0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 109 2% -4.4%
Non-citizens 19 0.4% -50.0%
Racial breakdown
White
85.4%
Black or African American
4.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.8%
Asian
1.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.1%
Other
0.7%
Value Percent
White 4,573 85.4%
Black or African American 223 4.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 43 0.8%
Asian 94 1.8%
Two or more races 382 7.1%
Other 38 0.7%

Households in Clarinda

A peek inside Clarinda households

Clarinda has 2,023 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 51.3% are families, while the remaining 48.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,023
4.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
986
Family households
1,037
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 986 48.7% 14.1%
Family households 1,037 51.3% -2.7%
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 Clarinda

The housing landscape of Clarinda

Clarinda's housing consists of 2,295 units, with 73.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.4% 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 3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,295
1.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,694 73.8%
1 unit, attached 32 1.4%
2 units 99 4.3%
3 or 4 units 194 8.4%
5 to 9 units 28 1.2%
10 to 19 units 104 4.5%
20 to 49 units 45 2%
50 or more units 31 1.4%
Mobile home 68 3%
Homes built since 2020
9
0.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Clarinda

In Clarinda, the median construction year is 1960. About 39.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 907 39.5% 0.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 55 2.4% 5.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 184 8% -14.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 258 11.2% 21.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 385 16.8% 0.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 251 10.9% 9.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 83 3.6% -22.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 96 4.2% 6.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 67 2.9% 21.8%
Built in 2020 or later 9 0.4% 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.

Clarinda occupancy rates

Out of the 2,023 occupied housing units in Clarinda, 69.4% are owner-occupied, while 30.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,023
4.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
619
Owner occupied
1,404
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 619 30.6% -5.1%
Owner occupied 1,404 69.4% 9.9%
Unoccupied housing units
11.9%
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.

Clarinda housing costs

Housing costs in Clarinda come to a median of $671 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $660.

Median housing costs per month
$671/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 Clarinda
$660/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 Clarinda

Clarinda education at a glance

About 52.2% of the population in Clarinda went to high school, while 19.4% pursued college studies. Another 12.8% earned an associate degree and 8.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 107 2.5% -2.7%
High school diploma 2,234 52.2% 4.1%
College diploma 828 19.4% -17.4%
Associate degree 550 12.8% 10.2%
Bachelor's degree 377 8.8% 7.7%
Graduate degree 183 4.3% -7.1%
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 Clarinda

How much people earn in Clarinda

The average annual household income in Clarinda was $64,569 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $46,348, reflecting a -8.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Clarinda
$64,569/year
2.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Clarinda
$46,348/year
-8.5% year-over-year change

Clarinda income by age

In Clarinda, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $54,583. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $55,815 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $31,750, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $33,875 in earnings. Overall, 88.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $31,750 -22.3%
25 - 44 $54,583 0.0%
45 - 64 $55,815 6.4%
Over 65 $33,875 -13.1%
Above poverty level
3,847
Below poverty level
490
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,847 88.7% -0.8%
Below poverty level 490 11.3% 4.7%

Average renter income in Clarinda

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Clarinda, their median household income was $29,907 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 26.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$29,907
Rent-to-income ratio
26.5%
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 Clarinda

Workforce and job types in Clarinda

The job market in Clarinda is powered by 1,840 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 65.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.7% run their own businesses, 65% are employed by private companies, and 18.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,840
1.5% year-over-year change
White collar
1,201
Blue collar
639
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,201 65.3% 7.5%
Blue collar 639 34.7% -8.2%
Employer type
Self employees
8.7%
Private companies
65%
Governmental workers
18.2%
Not for profit companies
8.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 160 8.7% 30.1%
Private companies 1,196 65% -2.8%
Governmental workers 334 18.2% 13.2%
Not for profit companies 150 8.2% -8.5%
Unemployment rate
6.5%
-29.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Clarinda stands at 6.5%, 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 Clarinda

How people get around in Clarinda

In Clarinda, the average commute time is 16 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 89.3% 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.

Commute time
16 min
-2.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,624 89.3% 3.6%
Motorcycle 54 3% 3.9%
Walk 35 1.9% -34.0%
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 Clarinda by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
51632 6,624 2,527 $55,055 $76,422

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FAQs about Clarinda demographics 

What is the total population of Clarinda?

Clarinda has a total population of 5,353 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Clarinda?

The gender ratio in Clarinda is as follows:
  • 55.9% males (2,992 residents)
  • 44.1% females (2,361 residents)

What is the median age in Clarinda?

The median age in Clarinda is 40.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Clarinda?

The age distribution in Clarinda is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.7% (839 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11% (589 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.6% (1,638 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 19.8% (1,060 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.9% (1,227 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Clarinda?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Clarinda is as follows:
  • White: 85.4% (4,573 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.2% (223 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.8% (43 residents)
  • Asian: 1.8% (94 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.1% (382 residents)
  • Other: 0.7% (38 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.6% of the population in Clarinda.

How many housing units are there in Clarinda?

There are 2,295 housing units in Clarinda, reflecting a +1.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Clarinda has a total of 2,023 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Clarinda?

Clarinda has a median household income of $46,348, representing a -8.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.5% in Clarinda, with a workforce of 1,840 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65.3% (1,201 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34.7% (639 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.7% (160 residents)
  • Private companies: 65% (1,196 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.2% (334 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.2% (150 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