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

Total population
7,759
1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$59,044/yr
3.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,659
0.2% year-over-year change

Decatur County population

How many people live in Decatur County

Decatur County is home to 7,759 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Decatur County locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
7,759
1.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
3,850
Female
50.4%
3,909
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,850 49.6% -0.2%
Female 3,909 50.4% 2.5%
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 Decatur County is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.1% are children under 15, then 20.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 19.4% of the population, while another 21.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.1%
15 to 24
20.3%
25 to 44
19.4%
45 to 64
21.1%
Over 65
21.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,403 18.1% -1.8%
15 to 24 1,577 20.3% 7.2%
25 to 44 1,506 19.4% -1.5%
45 to 64 1,634 21.1% -0.4%
Over 65 1,639 21.1% 2.5%
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 Decatur County, 97.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91.8% of locals are Caucasian, 1.3% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.8%
Non-citizens
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 7,588 97.8% 1.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 60 0.8% 15.4%
Non-citizens 111 1.4% -5.9%
Racial breakdown
White
91.8%
Black or African American
1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.6%
Other
1.4%
Value Percent
White 7,121 91.8%
Black or African American 102 1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 16 0.2%
Asian 56 0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1 0%
Two or more races 356 4.6%
Other 107 1.4%

Households in Decatur County

A peek inside Decatur County households

Decatur County has 3,055 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.8% are families, while the remaining 39.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,055
0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,198
Family households
1,857
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,198 39.2% 4.4%
Family households 1,857 60.8% -2.3%
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 Decatur County

The housing landscape of Decatur County

Decatur County's housing consists of 3,659 units, with 76.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1% 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 7.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,659
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,807 76.7%
1 unit, attached 35 1%
2 units 119 3.2%
3 or 4 units 157 4.3%
5 to 9 units 85 2.3%
10 to 19 units 47 1.3%
20 to 49 units 105 2.9%
50 or more units 28 0.8%
Mobile home 276 7.5%
Homes built since 2020
33
17.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Decatur County

In Decatur County, the median construction year is 1970. About 27.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.2% 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, 4.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,008 27.6% -9.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 116 3.2% -7.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 336 9.2% 8.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 357 9.8% 7.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 497 13.6% 31.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 283 7.7% -0.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 469 12.8% -6.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 401 11% -7.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 159 4.4% 6.7%
Built in 2020 or later 33 0.9% 17.9%
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.

Decatur County occupancy rates

Out of the 3,055 occupied housing units in Decatur County, 69.7% are owner-occupied, while 30.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 16.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,055
0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
925
Owner occupied
2,130
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 925 30.3% -5.2%
Owner occupied 2,130 69.7% 2.8%
Unoccupied housing units
16.5%
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.

Decatur County housing costs

Housing costs in Decatur County come to a median of $745 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $611.

Median housing costs per month
$745/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 Decatur County
$611/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 Decatur County

Decatur County education at a glance

About 41.6% of the population in Decatur County went to high school, while 26.4% pursued college studies. Another 8.3% earned an associate degree and 10.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 241 4% -13.3%
High school diploma 2,514 41.6% 4.8%
College diploma 1,594 26.4% 0.2%
Associate degree 500 8.3% 3.3%
Bachelor's degree 636 10.5% -8.5%
Graduate degree 553 9.2% 12.6%
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 Decatur County

How much people earn in Decatur County

The average annual household income in Decatur County was $74,390 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $59,044, reflecting a +3.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Decatur County
$74,390/year
5.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Decatur County
$59,044/year
3.3% year-over-year change

Decatur County income by age

In Decatur County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $75,625. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $72,411 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $60,938, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $39,196 in earnings. Overall, 85.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $60,938 -13.0%
25 - 44 $75,625 8.4%
45 - 64 $72,411 14.1%
Over 65 $39,196 2.2%
Above poverty level
5,979
Below poverty level
1,024
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 5,979 85.4% 1.5%
Below poverty level 1,024 14.6% -1.8%

Employment in Decatur County

Workforce and job types in Decatur County

The job market in Decatur County is powered by 3,799 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15.1% run their own businesses, 55.7% are employed by private companies, and 18.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,799
8.4% year-over-year change
White collar
2,791
Blue collar
1,008
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,791 73.5% 10.8%
Blue collar 1,008 26.5% 2.2%
Employer type
Self employees
15.1%
Private companies
55.7%
Governmental workers
18.1%
Not for profit companies
11.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 573 15.1% 0.3%
Private companies 2,117 55.7% 10.0%
Governmental workers 687 18.1% 2.2%
Not for profit companies 422 11.1% 25.2%
Unemployment rate
1.9%
-35.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Decatur County stands at 1.9%, 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 Decatur County

How people get around in Decatur County

In Decatur County, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 7.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
22 min
-1.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 3,218 85.2% 7.5%
Walk 295 7.8% 46.8%
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 Decatur County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50065 517 208 $49,423 $78,095
50067 354 120 $43,750 $53,757
50103 453 199 $64,063 $75,094
50108 376 181 $38,125 $46,381
50133 528 227 $58,375 $71,677
50140 2,842 987 $57,443 $76,060
50144 2,692 1,092 $63,333 $72,698
50147 463 213 $38,281 $62,419
50262 263 133 $81,875 $91,828
50264 502 228 $64,545 $67,879

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FAQs about Decatur County demographics 

What is the total population of Decatur County?

Decatur County has a total population of 7,759 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 +1.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Decatur County?

The gender ratio in Decatur County is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (3,850 residents)
  • 50.4% females (3,909 residents)

What is the median age in Decatur County?

The median age in Decatur County is 36.1.

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

The age distribution in Decatur County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.1% (1,403 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 20.3% (1,577 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 19.4% (1,506 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.1% (1,634 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.1% (1,639 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Decatur County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Decatur County is as follows:
  • White: 91.8% (7,121 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.3% (102 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (16 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (56 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (1 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.6% (356 residents)
  • Other: 1.4% (107 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.8% of the population in Decatur County.

How many housing units are there in Decatur County?

There are 3,659 housing units in Decatur County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Decatur County has a total of 3,055 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Decatur County?

Decatur County has a median household income of $59,044, representing a +3.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 98.1% in Decatur County, with a workforce of 3,799 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.5% (2,791 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.5% (1,008 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15.1% (573 residents)
  • Private companies: 55.7% (2,117 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.1% (687 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.1% (422 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