Greater Iowa City, East Central Iowa, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
99,234
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$98,393/yr
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
43,990
2.4% year-over-year change

Greater Iowa City population

How many people live in Greater Iowa City

Greater Iowa City is home to 99,234 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.3% of Greater Iowa City locals are male, and 49.7% are female.

Total population
99,234
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.3%
49,911
Female
49.7%
49,324
Value Percent YoY change
Male 49,911 50.3% 0.9%
Female 49,324 49.7% 0.8%
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 Greater Iowa City is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.2% are children under 15, then 18.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29% of the population, while another 21.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.2%
15 to 24
18.6%
25 to 44
29%
45 to 64
21.6%
Over 65
12.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 18,020 18.2% -1.9%
15 to 24 18,415 18.6% -0.7%
25 to 44 28,793 29% 1.1%
45 to 64 21,392 21.6% 1.9%
Over 65 12,613 12.7% 5.1%
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 Greater Iowa City, 89.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 77% of locals are Caucasian, 7.5% are African American and 4.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.6%
Non-citizens
4.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 88,999 89.7% 1.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 5,520 5.6% 4.3%
Non-citizens 4,716 4.8% -12.8%
Racial breakdown
White
77%
Black or African American
7.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
4.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.2%
Other
2.3%
Value Percent
White 76,391 77%
Black or African American 7,462 7.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 199 0.2%
Asian 4,670 4.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 31 0%
Two or more races 8,177 8.2%
Other 2,304 2.3%

Households in Greater Iowa City

A peek inside Greater Iowa City households

Greater Iowa City has 41,085 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 54.4% are families, while the remaining 45.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
41,085
2.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
18,753
Family households
22,332
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 18,753 45.6% 6.9%
Family households 22,332 54.4% -0.5%
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 Greater Iowa City

The housing landscape of Greater Iowa City

Greater Iowa City's housing consists of 43,990 units, with 49.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 12.8% 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 4.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
43,990
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 21,860 49.7%
1 unit, attached 5,620 12.8%
2 units 952 2.2%
3 or 4 units 1,321 3%
5 to 9 units 3,207 7.3%
10 to 19 units 3,778 8.6%
20 to 49 units 2,853 6.5%
50 or more units 2,550 5.8%
Mobile home 1,849 4.2%
Homes built since 2020
1,441
78.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Greater Iowa City

In Greater Iowa City, the median construction year is 1991. About 7.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 20.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 3.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,470 7.9% -2.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 753 1.7% -2.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,144 4.9% 5.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,961 6.7% -3.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,746 10.8% -1.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,279 9.7% -3.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 7,425 16.9% 2.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 7,576 17.2% 1.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 9,195 20.9% 5.1%
Built in 2020 or later 1,441 3.3% 78.1%
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.

Greater Iowa City occupancy rates

Out of the 41,085 occupied housing units in Greater Iowa City, 62.8% are owner-occupied, while 37.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
41,085
2.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
15,269
Owner occupied
25,815
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 15,269 37.2% 3.1%
Owner occupied 25,815 62.8% 2.5%
Unoccupied housing units
6.6%
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.

Greater Iowa City housing costs

Housing costs in Greater Iowa City come to a median of $1,200 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,132.

Median housing costs per month
$1,200/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 Greater Iowa City
$1,132/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 Greater Iowa City

Greater Iowa City education at a glance

About 20.2% of the population in Greater Iowa City went to high school, while 22.7% pursued college studies. Another 10.2% earned an associate degree and 29.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 16.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,020 1.3% 2.5%
High school diploma 15,703 20.2% -3.2%
College diploma 17,651 22.7% -2.2%
Associate degree 7,892 10.2% 8.9%
Bachelor's degree 22,984 29.6% 5.7%
Graduate degree 12,536 16.1% 2.2%
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 Greater Iowa City

How much people earn in Greater Iowa City

The average annual household income in Greater Iowa City was $110,490 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $98,393, reflecting a +0.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Greater Iowa City
$110,490/year
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Greater Iowa City
$98,393/year
0.3% year-over-year change

Greater Iowa City income by age

In Greater Iowa City, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $108,929. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $113,330 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $41,845, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $72,917 in earnings. Overall, 85.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $41,845 0.6%
25 - 44 $108,929 -4.5%
45 - 64 $113,330 4.2%
Over 65 $72,917 3.7%
Above poverty level
82,652
Below poverty level
13,624
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 82,652 85.8% 0.5%
Below poverty level 13,624 14.2% 4.4%

Employment in Greater Iowa City

Workforce and job types in Greater Iowa City

83.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9% run their own businesses, 56.2% are employed by private companies, and 25.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
46,031
Blue collar
8,938
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 46,031 83.7% 1.0%
Blue collar 8,938 16.3% -2.8%
Employer type
Self employees
9%
Private companies
56.2%
Governmental workers
25.1%
Not for profit companies
9.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,954 9% 0.0%
Private companies 30,892 56.2% -0.4%
Governmental workers 13,820 25.1% 0.3%
Not for profit companies 5,303 9.6% 5.5%

Transportation in Greater Iowa City

How people get around in Greater Iowa City

In Greater Iowa City, the average commute time is 48 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 90.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
48 min
-15.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 41,991 90.3% -1.6%
Taxicab 96 0.2% 3.2%
Bus or trolleybus 1,119 2.4% -2.5%
Ferryboat 22 0% N/A
Motorcycle 83 0.2% 45.6%
Bicycle 511 1.1% -1.4%
Walk 2,687 5.8% 7.3%
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 Greater Iowa City by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
52317 23,097 8,913 $105,318 $144,244
52322 2,266 910 $64,444 $89,426
52333 7,295 2,751 $118,721 $140,481
52338 3,934 1,426 $119,605 $162,576
52340 6,128 2,596 $98,393 $144,608
52235 974 438 $83,333 $89,732
52240 35,074 15,417 $52,960 $81,157
52241 23,250 10,001 $69,243 $104,721
52755 2,092 775 $102,434 $106,471

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FAQs about Greater Iowa City demographics 

What is the total population of Greater Iowa City?

Greater Iowa City has a total population of 99,234 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 +0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Greater Iowa City?

The gender ratio in Greater Iowa City is as follows:
  • 50.3% males (49,911 residents)
  • 49.7% females (49,324 residents)

What is the median age in Greater Iowa City?

The median age in Greater Iowa City is 36.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Greater Iowa City?

The age distribution in Greater Iowa City is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.2% (18,020 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 18.6% (18,415 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29% (28,793 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.6% (21,392 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.7% (12,613 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Greater Iowa City?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Greater Iowa City is as follows:
  • White: 77% (76,391 residents)
  • Black or African American: 7.5% (7,462 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (199 residents)
  • Asian: 4.7% (4,670 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (31 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.2% (8,177 residents)
  • Other: 2.3% (2,304 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89.7% of the population in Greater Iowa City.

How many housing units are there in Greater Iowa City?

There are 43,990 housing units in Greater Iowa City, reflecting a +2.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Greater Iowa City has a total of 41,085 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Greater Iowa City?

Greater Iowa City has a median household income of $98,393, representing a +0.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Greater Iowa City?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.7% (46,031 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.3% (8,938 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9% (4,954 residents)
  • Private companies: 56.2% (30,892 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 25.1% (13,820 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.6% (5,303 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