Estherville, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
5,839
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,124/yr
-0.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,778
-0.7% year-over-year change

Estherville population

How many people live in Estherville

Estherville is home to 5,839 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.3% of Estherville locals are male, and 49.7% are female.

Total population
5,839
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.3%
2,937
Female
49.7%
2,902
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,937 50.3% -0.5%
Female 2,902 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 Estherville is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.9% are children under 15, then 16.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.6% of the population, while another 22.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.9%
15 to 24
16.2%
25 to 44
24.6%
45 to 64
22.5%
Over 65
22.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 811 13.9% -7.5%
15 to 24 945 16.2% 9.5%
25 to 44 1,436 24.6% 3.4%
45 to 64 1,315 22.5% -13.4%
Over 65 1,332 22.8% 9.4%
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 Estherville, 95.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 84.9% of locals are Caucasian, 2.1% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.5%
Non-citizens
2.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,556 95.2% 1.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 144 2.5% -26.1%
Non-citizens 139 2.4% -27.6%
Racial breakdown
White
84.9%
Black or African American
2.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
9.8%
Other
2.7%
Value Percent
White 4,958 84.9%
Black or African American 122 2.1%
Asian 20 0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 5 0.1%
Two or more races 575 9.8%
Other 159 2.7%

Households in Estherville

A peek inside Estherville households

Estherville has 2,547 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 50.8% are families, while the remaining 49.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,547
2.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,253
Family households
1,294
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,253 49.2% 3.5%
Family households 1,294 50.8% 1.0%
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 Estherville

The housing landscape of Estherville

Estherville's housing consists of 2,778 units, with 78% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.3% 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 3.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,778
-0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,168 78%
1 unit, attached 37 1.3%
2 units 87 3.1%
3 or 4 units 127 4.6%
5 to 9 units 105 3.8%
10 to 19 units 65 2.3%
20 to 49 units 70 2.5%
50 or more units 20 0.7%
Mobile home 99 3.6%
Homes built since 2020
20
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Estherville

In Estherville, the median construction year is 1956. About 30.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 850 30.6% 9.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 222 8% 1.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 560 20.2% -11.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 425 15.3% 9.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 405 14.6% -6.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 62 2.2% 55.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 37 1.3% -50.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 100 3.6% -40.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 97 3.5% 73.2%
Built in 2020 or later 20 0.7% 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.

Estherville occupancy rates

Out of the 2,547 occupied housing units in Estherville, 73.7% are owner-occupied, while 26.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,547
2.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
669
Owner occupied
1,878
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 669 26.3% -5.4%
Owner occupied 1,878 73.7% 5.2%
Unoccupied housing units
8.3%
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.

Estherville housing costs

Housing costs in Estherville come to a median of $768 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $754.

Median housing costs per month
$768/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 Estherville
$754/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 Estherville

Estherville education at a glance

About 42.8% of the population in Estherville went to high school, while 25.3% pursued college studies. Another 15.8% earned an associate degree and 8.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 214 4.4% 2.9%
High school diploma 2,059 42.8% -1.5%
College diploma 1,217 25.3% 0.8%
Associate degree 761 15.8% 11.3%
Bachelor's degree 390 8.1% -12.6%
Graduate degree 165 3.4% -3.5%
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 Estherville

How much people earn in Estherville

The average annual household income in Estherville was $65,154 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,124, reflecting a -0.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Estherville
$65,154/year
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Estherville
$54,124/year
-0.9% year-over-year change

Estherville income by age

In Estherville, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $75,132. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $61,700 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $77,656, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $34,091 in earnings. Overall, 87.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $77,656 1.1%
25 - 44 $75,132 13.5%
45 - 64 $61,700 -9.0%
Over 65 $34,091 -0.7%
Above poverty level
4,681
Below poverty level
658
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,681 87.7% 0.9%
Below poverty level 658 12.3% -0.8%

Average renter income in Estherville

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Estherville, their median household income was $35,975 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 25.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$35,975
Rent-to-income ratio
25.2%
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 Estherville

Workforce and job types in Estherville

The job market in Estherville is powered by 3,090 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 61.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 38.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.5% run their own businesses, 75.2% are employed by private companies, and 8.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,090
-1.9% year-over-year change
White collar
1,901
Blue collar
1,189
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,901 61.5% -3.4%
Blue collar 1,189 38.5% 0.5%
Employer type
Self employees
6.5%
Private companies
75.2%
Governmental workers
8.7%
Not for profit companies
9.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 202 6.5% 33.8%
Private companies 2,324 75.2% -2.1%
Governmental workers 268 8.7% -24.3%
Not for profit companies 296 9.6% 8.8%
Unemployment rate
1.1%
-30.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Estherville stands at 1.1%, 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 Estherville

How people get around in Estherville

In Estherville, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 89.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.7% 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
-0.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,753 89.4% 2.6%
Walk 145 4.7% -25.6%
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 Estherville by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
51334 6,960 3,017 $57,482 $74,294

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FAQs about Estherville demographics 

What is the total population of Estherville?

Estherville has a total population of 5,839 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 -0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Estherville?

The gender ratio in Estherville is as follows:
  • 50.3% males (2,937 residents)
  • 49.7% females (2,902 residents)

What is the median age in Estherville?

The median age in Estherville is 40.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Estherville?

The age distribution in Estherville is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.9% (811 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.2% (945 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.6% (1,436 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.5% (1,315 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.8% (1,332 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Estherville?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Estherville is as follows:
  • White: 84.9% (4,958 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.1% (122 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (20 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (5 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.8% (575 residents)
  • Other: 2.7% (159 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.2% of the population in Estherville.

How many housing units are there in Estherville?

There are 2,778 housing units in Estherville, reflecting a -0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Estherville has a total of 2,547 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Estherville?

Estherville has a median household income of $54,124, representing a -0.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 98.9% in Estherville, with a workforce of 3,090 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 61.5% (1,901 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 38.5% (1,189 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.5% (202 residents)
  • Private companies: 75.2% (2,324 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 8.7% (268 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.6% (296 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