Fairfield, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
9,456
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$51,311/yr
6.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,631
-2.2% year-over-year change

Fairfield population

How many people live in Fairfield

Fairfield is home to 9,456 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 53% of Fairfield locals are male, and 47% are female.

Total population
9,456
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
53%
5,016
Female
47%
4,440
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,016 53% 0.9%
Female 4,440 47% -0.7%
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 Fairfield is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.2% are children under 15, then 12.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.4% of the population, while another 17.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 26.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
40
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.2%
15 to 24
12.5%
25 to 44
30.4%
45 to 64
17.3%
Over 65
26.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,249 13.2% 1.5%
15 to 24 1,182 12.5% 6.9%
25 to 44 2,872 30.4% -0.3%
45 to 64 1,634 17.3% -11.0%
Over 65 2,519 26.6% 5.6%
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 Fairfield, 79.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 17.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 78% of locals are Caucasian, 4.1% are African American and 11.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
79.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.3%
Non-citizens
17.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 7,509 79.4% -3.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 308 3.3% -21.2%
Non-citizens 1,639 17.3% 31.2%
Racial breakdown
White
78%
Black or African American
4.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.3%
Asian
11.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.2%
Other
0.8%
Value Percent
White 7,376 78%
Black or African American 390 4.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 121 1.3%
Asian 1,102 11.6%
Two or more races 396 4.2%
Other 71 0.8%

Households in Fairfield

A peek inside Fairfield households

Fairfield has 4,115 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 45.8% are families, while the remaining 54.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,115
-2.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,232
Family households
1,883
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,232 54.2% -0.7%
Family households 1,883 45.8% -3.6%
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 Fairfield

The housing landscape of Fairfield

Fairfield's housing consists of 4,631 units, with 66.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.8% 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 5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,631
-2.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,081 66.5%
1 unit, attached 221 4.8%
2 units 180 3.9%
3 or 4 units 535 11.6%
5 to 9 units 66 1.4%
10 to 19 units 138 3%
20 to 49 units 178 3.8%
Mobile home 232 5%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fairfield

In Fairfield, the median construction year is 1964. About 30.4% 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.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,406 30.4% -11.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 195 4.2% -5.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 507 11% 87.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 523 11.3% -10.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 537 11.6% -15.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 683 14.8% 43.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 289 6.2% -22.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 203 4.4% -46.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 288 6.2% 28.0%
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.

Fairfield occupancy rates

Out of the 4,115 occupied housing units in Fairfield, 60% are owner-occupied, while 40% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,115
-2.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,648
Owner occupied
2,467
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,648 40% -9.1%
Owner occupied 2,467 60% 3.3%
Unoccupied housing units
11.1%
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.

Fairfield housing costs

Housing costs in Fairfield come to a median of $872 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $870.

Median housing costs per month
$872/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 Fairfield
$870/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 Fairfield

Fairfield education at a glance

About 20.5% of the population in Fairfield went to high school, while 19.1% pursued college studies. Another 9.9% earned an associate degree and 29.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 20% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 96 1.2% 11.6%
High school diploma 1,646 20.5% -3.7%
College diploma 1,529 19.1% -4.2%
Associate degree 791 9.9% -4.9%
Bachelor's degree 2,355 29.4% 9.2%
Graduate degree 1,601 20% -2.0%
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 Fairfield

How much people earn in Fairfield

The average annual household income in Fairfield was $81,231 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $51,311, reflecting a +6.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fairfield
$81,231/year
7.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fairfield
$51,311/year
6.2% year-over-year change

Fairfield income by age

In Fairfield, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $45,106. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $57,907 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $73,324, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,167 in earnings. Overall, 79.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $73,324 3.8%
25 - 44 $45,106 -15.1%
45 - 64 $57,907 47.2%
Over 65 $44,167 1.1%
Above poverty level
6,659
Below poverty level
1,746
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,659 79.2% -2.3%
Below poverty level 1,746 20.8% 7.2%

Average renter income in Fairfield

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Fairfield, their median household income was $28,517 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 36.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$28,517
Rent-to-income ratio
36.6%
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 Fairfield

Workforce and job types in Fairfield

The job market in Fairfield is powered by 3,971 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 80.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 16.1% run their own businesses, 63.5% are employed by private companies, and 8.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,971
-9.8% year-over-year change
White collar
3,186
Blue collar
785
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,186 80.2% -9.4%
Blue collar 785 19.8% -11.1%
Employer type
Self employees
16.1%
Private companies
63.5%
Governmental workers
8.2%
Not for profit companies
12.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 639 16.1% -5.8%
Private companies 2,520 63.5% -11.6%
Governmental workers 325 8.2% -10.5%
Not for profit companies 487 12.3% -4.3%
Unemployment rate
11.8%
62.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Fairfield stands at 11.8%, 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 Fairfield

How people get around in Fairfield

Commuting methods vary: 64.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 6% 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 2,567 64.9% -8.9%
Bicycle 27 0.7% 68.8%
Walk 239 6% 2.1%
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 Fairfield by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
52556 11,448 5,377 $59,243 $84,484
52557 685 0 $0 $0

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FAQs about Fairfield demographics 

What is the total population of Fairfield?

Fairfield has a total population of 9,456 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 +0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Fairfield?

The gender ratio in Fairfield is as follows:
  • 53% males (5,016 residents)
  • 47% females (4,440 residents)

What is the median age in Fairfield?

The median age in Fairfield is 40.

What is the age distribution of the population in Fairfield?

The age distribution in Fairfield is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.2% (1,249 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.5% (1,182 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.4% (2,872 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 17.3% (1,634 residents)
  • Over 65: 26.6% (2,519 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Fairfield?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fairfield is as follows:
  • White: 78% (7,376 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.1% (390 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.3% (121 residents)
  • Asian: 11.6% (1,102 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.2% (396 residents)
  • Other: 0.8% (71 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 79.4% of the population in Fairfield.

How many housing units are there in Fairfield?

There are 4,631 housing units in Fairfield, reflecting a -2.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Fairfield has a total of 4,115 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fairfield?

Fairfield has a median household income of $51,311, representing a +6.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 88.2% in Fairfield, with a workforce of 3,971 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80.2% (3,186 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19.8% (785 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 16.1% (639 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.5% (2,520 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 8.2% (325 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.3% (487 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