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

Total population
17,990
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$75,432/yr
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
14,206
1.0% year-over-year change

Dickinson County population

How many people live in Dickinson County

Dickinson County is home to 17,990 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.3% of Dickinson County locals are male, and 49.7% are female.

Total population
17,990
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.3%
9,054
Female
49.7%
8,936
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,054 50.3% 1.2%
Female 8,936 49.7% 0.4%
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 Dickinson County is 49, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.6% are children under 15, then 9.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.8% of the population, while another 26.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 28.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
48.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.6%
15 to 24
9.3%
25 to 44
20.8%
45 to 64
26.1%
Over 65
28.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,804 15.6% -0.1%
15 to 24 1,666 9.3% -2.7%
25 to 44 3,740 20.8% -1.1%
45 to 64 4,701 26.1% 1.7%
Over 65 5,079 28.2% 3.2%
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 Dickinson County, 98.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.9% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 4.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.6%
Non-citizens
0.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 17,730 98.6% 1.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 105 0.6% -16.0%
Non-citizens 155 0.9% -39.5%
Racial breakdown
White
94.3%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.7%
Other
0.4%
Value Percent
White 16,965 94.3%
Black or African American 6 0%
American Indian and Alaska Native 10 0.1%
Asian 83 0.5%
Two or more races 853 4.7%
Other 73 0.4%

Households in Dickinson County

A peek inside Dickinson County households

Dickinson County has 8,845 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58.8% are families, while the remaining 41.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,845
2.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,647
Family households
5,198
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,647 41.2% -3.7%
Family households 5,198 58.8% 6.9%
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 Dickinson County

The housing landscape of Dickinson County

Dickinson County's housing consists of 14,206 units, with 71% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.6% 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 8.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
14,206
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 10,085 71%
1 unit, attached 375 2.6%
2 units 137 1%
3 or 4 units 596 4.2%
5 to 9 units 794 5.6%
10 to 19 units 454 3.2%
20 to 49 units 432 3%
50 or more units 21 0.2%
Mobile home 1,259 8.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 53 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
233
34.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Dickinson County

In Dickinson County, the median construction year is 1979. About 16.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 11.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,372 16.7% 2.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 650 4.6% -4.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 870 6.1% -13.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,041 7.3% -16.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,470 17.4% 5.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 995 7% -12.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,838 12.9% 19.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,120 14.9% -3.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,617 11.4% 13.2%
Built in 2020 or later 233 1.6% 34.7%
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.

Dickinson County occupancy rates

Out of the 8,845 occupied housing units in Dickinson County, 77.5% are owner-occupied, while 22.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 37.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,845
2.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,994
Owner occupied
6,851
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,994 22.5% -1.2%
Owner occupied 6,851 77.5% 3.3%
Unoccupied housing units
37.7%
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.

Dickinson County housing costs

Housing costs in Dickinson County come to a median of $997 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $922.

Median housing costs per month
$997/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 Dickinson County
$922/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 Dickinson County

Dickinson County education at a glance

About 33.2% of the population in Dickinson County went to high school, while 24.1% pursued college studies. Another 12.8% earned an associate degree and 21.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 97 0.7% -25.4%
High school diploma 4,829 33.2% 6.8%
College diploma 3,510 24.1% 2.0%
Associate degree 1,866 12.8% -5.2%
Bachelor's degree 3,094 21.2% -4.7%
Graduate degree 1,165 8% 5.3%
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 Dickinson County

How much people earn in Dickinson County

The average annual household income in Dickinson County was $102,164 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $75,432, reflecting a +1.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Dickinson County
$102,164/year
3.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Dickinson County
$75,432/year
1.2% year-over-year change

Dickinson County income by age

In Dickinson County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $81,431. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $91,675 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $57,833, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $66,162 in earnings. Overall, 92.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $57,833 0.8%
25 - 44 $81,431 -12.4%
45 - 64 $91,675 3.6%
Over 65 $66,162 3.3%
Above poverty level
16,217
Below poverty level
1,337
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 16,217 92.4% -0.7%
Below poverty level 1,337 7.6% 21.4%

Employment in Dickinson County

Workforce and job types in Dickinson County

The job market in Dickinson County is powered by 9,362 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 14.7% run their own businesses, 63.7% are employed by private companies, and 12.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,362
0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
6,865
Blue collar
2,497
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,865 73.3% -0.2%
Blue collar 2,497 26.7% 3.0%
Employer type
Self employees
14.7%
Private companies
63.7%
Governmental workers
12.4%
Not for profit companies
9.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,379 14.7% -0.8%
Private companies 5,962 63.7% -0.9%
Governmental workers 1,166 12.4% -3.7%
Not for profit companies 855 9.1% 24.3%
Unemployment rate
3.0%
23.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Dickinson County stands at 3%, 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 Dickinson County

How people get around in Dickinson County

In Dickinson County, the average commute time is 17 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.7% 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.

Commute time
17 min
-2.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 7,915 85.7% 1.4%
Taxicab 1 0% N/A
Motorcycle 14 0.2% 250.0%
Bicycle 8 0.1% -83.3%
Walk 223 2.4% 32.7%
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 Dickinson County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
51331 935 522 $89,167 $129,762
51334 6,960 3,017 $57,482 $74,294
51338 852 382 $57,500 $76,627
51347 1,470 651 $82,750 $91,589
51351 4,988 2,354 $73,824 $115,101
51355 1,048 614 $72,262 $109,036
51360 8,653 4,330 $75,882 $92,949
51363 111 45 $75,625 $75,842
51364 803 320 $66,875 $118,276

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FAQs about Dickinson County demographics 

What is the total population of Dickinson County?

Dickinson County has a total population of 17,990 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 +0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Dickinson County?

The gender ratio in Dickinson County is as follows:
  • 50.3% males (9,054 residents)
  • 49.7% females (8,936 residents)

What is the median age in Dickinson County?

The median age in Dickinson County is 48.7.

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

The age distribution in Dickinson County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.6% (2,804 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.3% (1,666 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.8% (3,740 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.1% (4,701 residents)
  • Over 65: 28.2% (5,079 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Dickinson County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Dickinson County is as follows:
  • White: 94.3% (16,965 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (6 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (10 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (83 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.7% (853 residents)
  • Other: 0.4% (73 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.6% of the population in Dickinson County.

How many housing units are there in Dickinson County?

There are 14,206 housing units in Dickinson County, reflecting a +1.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Dickinson County has a total of 8,845 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Dickinson County?

Dickinson County has a median household income of $75,432, representing a +1.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97% in Dickinson County, with a workforce of 9,362 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.3% (6,865 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.7% (2,497 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 14.7% (1,379 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.7% (5,962 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.4% (1,166 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.1% (855 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