Emmetsburg, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
3,648
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$55,833/yr
-2.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,848
1.3% year-over-year change

Emmetsburg population

How many people live in Emmetsburg

Emmetsburg is home to 3,648 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52.5% of Emmetsburg locals are male, and 47.5% are female.

Total population
3,648
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52.5%
1,916
Female
47.5%
1,732
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,916 52.5% 1.7%
Female 1,732 47.5% -2.0%
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 Emmetsburg is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.4% are children under 15, then 13.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.4% of the population, while another 23.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.4%
15 to 24
13.8%
25 to 44
21.4%
45 to 64
23.8%
Over 65
25.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 562 15.4% -7.9%
15 to 24 505 13.8% 0.2%
25 to 44 780 21.4% 9.9%
45 to 64 867 23.8% -1.0%
Over 65 934 25.6% -1.8%
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 Emmetsburg, 97% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 95.9% of locals are Caucasian, 0.1% are African American and 1.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 1.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.3%
Non-citizens
0.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,538 97% -1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 83 2.3% 12.2%
Non-citizens 27 0.7% 1,250.0%
Racial breakdown
White
95.9%
Black or African American
0.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
1.6%
Other
1.2%
Value Percent
White 3,497 95.9%
Black or African American 3 0.1%
Asian 46 1.3%
Two or more races 58 1.6%
Other 44 1.2%

Households in Emmetsburg

A peek inside Emmetsburg households

Emmetsburg has 1,646 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 50.1% are families, while the remaining 49.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,646
1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
822
Family households
824
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 822 49.9% 0.4%
Family households 824 50.1% 1.9%
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 Emmetsburg

The housing landscape of Emmetsburg

Emmetsburg's housing consists of 1,848 units, with 75.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.1% 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 1.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,848
1.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,401 75.8%
1 unit, attached 39 2.1%
2 units 14 0.8%
3 or 4 units 122 6.6%
5 to 9 units 74 4%
10 to 19 units 75 4.1%
20 to 49 units 62 3.4%
50 or more units 29 1.6%
Mobile home 32 1.7%
Homes built since 2020
8
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Emmetsburg

In Emmetsburg, the median construction year is 1960. About 30.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 566 30.6% -8.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 77 4.2% -3.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 290 15.7% 16.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 109 5.9% -52.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 368 19.9% 25.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 194 10.5% 27.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 87 4.7% -1.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 97 5.2% 64.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 52 2.8% -13.3%
Built in 2020 or later 8 0.4% N/A
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.

Emmetsburg occupancy rates

Out of the 1,646 occupied housing units in Emmetsburg, 69.4% are owner-occupied, while 30.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,646
1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
503
Owner occupied
1,143
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 503 30.6% 2.6%
Owner occupied 1,143 69.4% 0.4%
Unoccupied housing units
10.9%
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.

Emmetsburg housing costs

Housing costs in Emmetsburg come to a median of $643 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $624.

Median housing costs per month
$643/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 Emmetsburg
$624/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 Emmetsburg

Emmetsburg education at a glance

About 37.1% of the population in Emmetsburg went to high school, while 32.6% pursued college studies. Another 13.7% earned an associate degree and 9.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 125 4.2% 43.7%
High school diploma 1,103 37.1% 0.8%
College diploma 969 32.6% 14.4%
Associate degree 407 13.7% -10.6%
Bachelor's degree 273 9.2% -9.0%
Graduate degree 99 3.3% -27.2%
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 Emmetsburg

How much people earn in Emmetsburg

The average annual household income in Emmetsburg was $73,263 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $55,833, reflecting a -2.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Emmetsburg
$73,263/year
2.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Emmetsburg
$55,833/year
-2.6% year-over-year change

Emmetsburg income by age

In Emmetsburg, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $67,375. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $89,943 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,568, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,250 in earnings. Overall, 84.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,568 N/A
25 - 44 $67,375 -11.4%
45 - 64 $89,943 9.8%
Over 65 $46,250 12.1%
Above poverty level
2,852
Below poverty level
512
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,852 84.8% 2.3%
Below poverty level 512 15.2% -11.6%

Average renter income in Emmetsburg

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Emmetsburg, their median household income was $28,250 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 26.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$28,250
Rent-to-income ratio
26.5%
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 Emmetsburg

Workforce and job types in Emmetsburg

The job market in Emmetsburg is powered by 2,007 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.5% run their own businesses, 69.3% are employed by private companies, and 11.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,007
3.2% year-over-year change
White collar
1,355
Blue collar
652
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,355 67.5% 4.2%
Blue collar 652 32.5% 1.1%
Employer type
Self employees
11.5%
Private companies
69.3%
Governmental workers
11.3%
Not for profit companies
7.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 231 11.5% 25.5%
Private companies 1,391 69.3% 3.0%
Governmental workers 227 11.3% -9.6%
Not for profit companies 158 7.9% -0.6%
Unemployment rate
2.4%
-25.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Emmetsburg 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 Emmetsburg

How people get around in Emmetsburg

Commuting methods vary: 84.4% 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.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,665 84.4% 3.5%
Bus or trolleybus 15 0.8% -25.0%
Bicycle 32 1.6% 0.0%
Walk 154 7.8% 25.2%
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 Emmetsburg by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50536 4,207 1,859 $59,261 $77,985

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FAQs about Emmetsburg demographics 

What is the total population of Emmetsburg?

Emmetsburg has a total population of 3,648 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 Emmetsburg?

The gender ratio in Emmetsburg is as follows:
  • 52.5% males (1,916 residents)
  • 47.5% females (1,732 residents)

What is the median age in Emmetsburg?

The median age in Emmetsburg is 44.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Emmetsburg?

The age distribution in Emmetsburg is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.4% (562 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.8% (505 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.4% (780 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.8% (867 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.6% (934 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Emmetsburg?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Emmetsburg is as follows:
  • White: 95.9% (3,497 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.1% (3 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 1.3% (46 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 1.6% (58 residents)
  • Other: 1.2% (44 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97% of the population in Emmetsburg.

How many housing units are there in Emmetsburg?

There are 1,848 housing units in Emmetsburg, reflecting a +1.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Emmetsburg has a total of 1,646 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Emmetsburg?

Emmetsburg has a median household income of $55,833, representing a -2.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Emmetsburg?

The employment rate is 97.6% in Emmetsburg, with a workforce of 2,007 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.5% (1,355 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.5% (652 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.5% (231 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.3% (1,391 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.3% (227 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.9% (158 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