Dakota City, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
752
-15.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,417/yr
-8.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
381
-8.6% year-over-year change

Dakota City population

How many people live in Dakota City

Dakota City is home to 752 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.3% of Dakota City locals are male, and 49.7% are female.

Total population
752
-15.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.3%
378
Female
49.7%
374
Value Percent YoY change
Male 378 50.3% -14.9%
Female 374 49.7% -15.6%
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 Dakota City is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.4% are children under 15, then 8.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.1% of the population, while another 26.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.4%
15 to 24
8.4%
25 to 44
27.1%
45 to 64
26.2%
Over 65
18.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 146 19.4% -25.9%
15 to 24 63 8.4% -40.0%
25 to 44 204 27.1% -9.7%
45 to 64 197 26.2% -13.6%
Over 65 142 18.9% 8.4%
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 Dakota City, 90.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.9% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 1.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.4%
Non-citizens
1.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 682 90.7% -15.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 56 7.4% -5.1%
Non-citizens 14 1.9% -26.3%
Racial breakdown
White
87.8%
Black or African American
0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
9.2%
Two or more races
1.2%
Other
1.2%
Value Percent
White 660 87.8%
Black or African American 5 0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 69 9.2%
Two or more races 9 1.2%
Other 9 1.2%

Households in Dakota City

A peek inside Dakota City households

Dakota City has 333 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.1% are families, while the remaining 36.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
333
-12.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
123
Family households
210
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 123 36.9% -9.6%
Family households 210 63.1% -13.9%
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 Dakota City

The housing landscape of Dakota City

Dakota City's housing consists of 381 units, with 92.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.8% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
381
-8.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 351 92.1%
1 unit, attached 3 0.8%
2 units 16 4.2%
3 or 4 units 6 1.6%
10 to 19 units 5 1.3%
Homes built since 2020
4
100.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Dakota City

In Dakota City, the median construction year is 1970. About 15% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 11% 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, 8.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 57 15% -14.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 42 11% -2.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 55 14.4% -15.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 36 9.4% -7.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 111 29.1% -17.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 15 3.9% -11.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 14 3.7% -12.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 16 4.2% 23.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 31 8.1% 55.0%
Built in 2020 or later 4 1% 100.0%
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.

Dakota City occupancy rates

Out of the 333 occupied housing units in Dakota City, 78.4% are owner-occupied, while 21.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
333
-12.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
72
Owner occupied
261
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 72 21.6% -17.2%
Owner occupied 261 78.4% -10.9%
Unoccupied housing units
12.6%
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.

Dakota City housing costs

Housing costs in Dakota City come to a median of $810 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $965.

Median housing costs per month
$810/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 Dakota City
$965/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 Dakota City

Dakota City education at a glance

About 43% of the population in Dakota City went to high school, while 21.8% pursued college studies. Another 26.6% earned an associate degree and 5.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 2.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 8 1.4% -11.1%
High school diploma 244 43% 4.3%
College diploma 124 21.8% -20.0%
Associate degree 151 26.6% -18.4%
Bachelor's degree 29 5.1% -9.4%
Graduate degree 12 2.1% -33.3%
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 Dakota City

How much people earn in Dakota City

The average annual household income in Dakota City was $80,359 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,417, reflecting a -8.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Dakota City
$80,359/year
-1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Dakota City
$60,417/year
-8.6% year-over-year change

Dakota City income by age

In Dakota City, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $60,000. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $77,417 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $58,125, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $39,583 in earnings. Overall, 93.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $58,125 -2.1%
25 - 44 $60,000 -2.0%
45 - 64 $77,417 -6.7%
Over 65 $39,583 5.5%
Above poverty level
687
Below poverty level
47
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 687 93.6% -15.5%
Below poverty level 47 6.4% -19.0%

Employment in Dakota City

Workforce and job types in Dakota City

The job market in Dakota City is powered by 400 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 58.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 41.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 26% run their own businesses, 60.5% are employed by private companies, and 9.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
400
-14.5% year-over-year change
White collar
233
Blue collar
167
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 233 58.2% -26.3%
Blue collar 167 41.8% 9.9%
Employer type
Self employees
26%
Private companies
60.5%
Governmental workers
9.5%
Not for profit companies
4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 104 26% -2.8%
Private companies 242 60.5% -9.7%
Governmental workers 38 9.5% -40.6%
Not for profit companies 16 4% -44.8%
Unemployment rate
9.1%
-2.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Dakota City stands at 9.1%, 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 Dakota City

How people get around in Dakota City

Commuting methods vary: 80% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.3% 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 317 80% -18.7%
Walk 5 1.3% 25.0%
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 Dakota City by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50529 752 333 $60,417 $80,359

Explore more communities

FAQs about Dakota City demographics 

What is the total population of Dakota City?

Dakota City has a total population of 752 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 -15.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Dakota City?

The gender ratio in Dakota City is as follows:
  • 50.3% males (378 residents)
  • 49.7% females (374 residents)

What is the median age in Dakota City?

The median age in Dakota City is 42.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Dakota City?

The age distribution in Dakota City is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.4% (146 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8.4% (63 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.1% (204 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.2% (197 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.9% (142 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Dakota City?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Dakota City is as follows:
  • White: 87.8% (660 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.7% (5 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 9.2% (69 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 1.2% (9 residents)
  • Other: 1.2% (9 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.7% of the population in Dakota City.

How many housing units are there in Dakota City?

There are 381 housing units in Dakota City, reflecting a -8.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Dakota City has a total of 333 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Dakota City?

Dakota City has a median household income of $60,417, representing a -8.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Dakota City?

The employment rate is 90.9% in Dakota City, with a workforce of 400 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 58.2% (233 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 41.8% (167 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 26% (104 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.5% (242 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.5% (38 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4% (16 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