Clear Lake, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
7,607
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$79,415/yr
13.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,470
-0.6% year-over-year change

Clear Lake population

How many people live in Clear Lake

Clear Lake is home to 7,607 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of Clear Lake locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
7,607
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
3,796
Female
50.1%
3,811
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,796 49.9% 4.7%
Female 3,811 50.1% -4.2%
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 Clear Lake is 49, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.7% are children under 15, then 9.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.7% of the population, while another 27.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 27.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
49.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.7%
15 to 24
9.7%
25 to 44
21.7%
45 to 64
27.4%
Over 65
27.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,042 13.7% -3.7%
15 to 24 737 9.7% -14.5%
25 to 44 1,654 21.7% 9.9%
45 to 64 2,085 27.4% -1.9%
Over 65 2,089 27.5% 3.0%
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 Clear Lake, 97.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 96.4% of locals are Caucasian, 0.2% are African American and 1.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 1.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.6%
Non-citizens
0.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 7,442 97.8% 1.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 125 1.6% -40.2%
Non-citizens 40 0.5% -4.8%
Racial breakdown
White
96.4%
Black or African American
0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
1.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
1.2%
Other
0.3%
Value Percent
White 7,332 96.4%
Black or African American 18 0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 5 0.1%
Asian 133 1.8%
Two or more races 95 1.2%
Other 24 0.3%

Households in Clear Lake

A peek inside Clear Lake households

Clear Lake has 3,519 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57% are families, while the remaining 43% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,519
2.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,513
Family households
2,006
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,513 43% 2.5%
Family households 2,006 57% 3.1%
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 Clear Lake

The housing landscape of Clear Lake

Clear Lake's housing consists of 4,470 units, with 67.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.9% 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 7.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,470
-0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,025 67.7%
1 unit, attached 41 0.9%
2 units 128 2.9%
3 or 4 units 109 2.4%
5 to 9 units 375 8.4%
10 to 19 units 191 4.3%
20 to 49 units 226 5.1%
50 or more units 33 0.7%
Mobile home 342 7.6%
Homes built since 2020
110
80.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Clear Lake

In Clear Lake, the median construction year is 1974. About 15.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 675 15.1% 2.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 245 5.5% 0.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 473 10.6% -5.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 450 10.1% -16.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,036 23.2% -3.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 491 11% 7.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 223 5% 11.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 565 12.6% -3.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 202 4.5% 12.8%
Built in 2020 or later 110 2.5% 80.3%
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.

Clear Lake occupancy rates

Out of the 3,519 occupied housing units in Clear Lake, 76.3% are owner-occupied, while 23.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 21.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,519
2.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
834
Owner occupied
2,685
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 834 23.7% -3.0%
Owner occupied 2,685 76.3% 4.8%
Unoccupied housing units
21.3%
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.

Clear Lake housing costs

Housing costs in Clear Lake come to a median of $1,003 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $808.

Median housing costs per month
$1,003/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 Clear Lake
$808/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 Clear Lake

Clear Lake education at a glance

About 33.6% of the population in Clear Lake went to high school, while 22.3% pursued college studies. Another 13.9% earned an associate degree and 19.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 47 0.8% -52.0%
High school diploma 2,109 33.6% 0.8%
College diploma 1,401 22.3% -4.6%
Associate degree 873 13.9% 7.5%
Bachelor's degree 1,234 19.6% 7.9%
Graduate degree 621 9.9% 1.1%
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 Clear Lake

How much people earn in Clear Lake

The average annual household income in Clear Lake was $122,748 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $79,415, reflecting a +13% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Clear Lake
$122,748/year
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Clear Lake
$79,415/year
13.0% year-over-year change

Clear Lake income by age

In Clear Lake, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $105,050. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $92,800 overall. Overall, 91.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $105,050 14.6%
45 - 64 $92,800 10.7%
Over 65 $53,750 3.2%
Above poverty level
6,789
Below poverty level
624
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,789 91.6% -0.9%
Below poverty level 624 8.4% 13.2%

Average renter income in Clear Lake

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Clear Lake, their median household income was $35,339 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 27.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$35,339
Rent-to-income ratio
27.4%
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 Clear Lake

Workforce and job types in Clear Lake

The job market in Clear Lake is powered by 3,836 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.3% run their own businesses, 60.7% are employed by private companies, and 15.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,836
0.9% year-over-year change
White collar
3,017
Blue collar
819
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,017 78.6% -0.8%
Blue collar 819 21.4% 7.6%
Employer type
Self employees
13.3%
Private companies
60.7%
Governmental workers
15.1%
Not for profit companies
10.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 510 13.3% -10.8%
Private companies 2,330 60.7% 5.0%
Governmental workers 580 15.1% -6.8%
Not for profit companies 416 10.8% 6.4%
Unemployment rate
2.4%
12.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Clear Lake stands at 2.4%, 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 Clear Lake

How people get around in Clear Lake

Commuting methods vary: 85.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.4% 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 3,199 85.3% 0.3%
Taxicab 16 0.4% -23.8%
Bus or trolleybus 46 1.2% 91.7%
Bicycle 14 0.4% 7.7%
Walk 91 2.4% 26.4%
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 Clear Lake by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50428 9,071 4,186 $81,037 $121,696

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FAQs about Clear Lake demographics 

What is the total population of Clear Lake?

Clear Lake has a total population of 7,607 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 +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Clear Lake?

The gender ratio in Clear Lake is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (3,796 residents)
  • 50.1% females (3,811 residents)

What is the median age in Clear Lake?

The median age in Clear Lake is 49.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Clear Lake?

The age distribution in Clear Lake is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.7% (1,042 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.7% (737 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.7% (1,654 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.4% (2,085 residents)
  • Over 65: 27.5% (2,089 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Clear Lake?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Clear Lake is as follows:
  • White: 96.4% (7,332 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.2% (18 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (5 residents)
  • Asian: 1.8% (133 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 1.2% (95 residents)
  • Other: 0.3% (24 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.8% of the population in Clear Lake.

How many housing units are there in Clear Lake?

There are 4,470 housing units in Clear Lake, reflecting a -0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Clear Lake has a total of 3,519 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Clear Lake?

Clear Lake has a median household income of $79,415, representing a +13.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Clear Lake?

The employment rate is 97.6% in Clear Lake, with a workforce of 3,836 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78.6% (3,017 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21.4% (819 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.3% (510 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.7% (2,330 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.1% (580 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.8% (416 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