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

Total population
19,288
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,165/yr
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,320
-0.0% year-over-year change

Fayette County population

How many people live in Fayette County

Fayette County is home to 19,288 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.3% of Fayette County locals are male, and 49.7% are female.

Total population
19,288
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.3%
9,705
Female
49.7%
9,583
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,705 50.3% -0.7%
Female 9,583 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 Fayette County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.2% are children under 15, then 12.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21% of the population, while another 26% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.2%
15 to 24
12.9%
25 to 44
21%
45 to 64
26%
Over 65
22.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,323 17.2% -2.4%
15 to 24 2,480 12.9% 2.2%
25 to 44 4,050 21% -2.5%
45 to 64 5,011 26% -2.1%
Over 65 4,424 22.9% 3.1%
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 Fayette County, 97.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92.2% of locals are Caucasian, 0.8% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.8%
Non-citizens
1.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 18,814 97.5% -1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 152 0.8% 22.6%
Non-citizens 322 1.7% 29.3%
Racial breakdown
White
92.2%
Black or African American
0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.3%
Other
0.4%
Value Percent
White 17,784 92.2%
Black or African American 153 0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 69 0.4%
Asian 177 0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1 0%
Two or more races 1,026 5.3%
Other 78 0.4%

Households in Fayette County

A peek inside Fayette County households

Fayette County has 8,342 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58.4% are families, while the remaining 41.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,342
1.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,472
Family households
4,870
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,472 41.6% 5.6%
Family households 4,870 58.4% -0.9%
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 Fayette County

The housing landscape of Fayette County

Fayette County's housing consists of 9,320 units, with 84.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.2% 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 5.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,320
-0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,873 84.5%
1 unit, attached 109 1.2%
2 units 99 1.1%
3 or 4 units 390 4.2%
5 to 9 units 198 2.1%
10 to 19 units 65 0.7%
20 to 49 units 42 0.4%
50 or more units 13 0.1%
Mobile home 526 5.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 5 0%
Homes built since 2020
12
33.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fayette County

In Fayette County, the median construction year is 1954. About 41% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,821 41% -0.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 536 5.8% -2.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 835 9% -2.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 863 9.3% 16.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 914 9.8% -7.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 692 7.4% 7.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 713 7.6% -8.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 563 6% 0.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 371 4% 2.8%
Built in 2020 or later 12 0.1% 33.3%
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.

Fayette County occupancy rates

Out of the 8,342 occupied housing units in Fayette County, 76.5% are owner-occupied, while 23.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,342
1.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,957
Owner occupied
6,385
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,957 23.5% 3.6%
Owner occupied 6,385 76.5% 1.1%
Unoccupied housing units
10.5%
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.

Fayette County housing costs

Housing costs in Fayette County come to a median of $869 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $881.

Median housing costs per month
$869/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 Fayette County
$881/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 Fayette County

Fayette County education at a glance

About 46.2% of the population in Fayette County went to high school, while 19.6% pursued college studies. Another 12.2% earned an associate degree and 14% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 394 2.6% 27.1%
High school diploma 7,006 46.2% -2.9%
College diploma 2,980 19.6% -4.8%
Associate degree 1,844 12.2% -5.4%
Bachelor's degree 2,122 14% 12.6%
Graduate degree 819 5.4% 8.1%
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 Fayette County

How much people earn in Fayette County

The average annual household income in Fayette County was $80,301 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,165, reflecting a +2.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fayette County
$80,301/year
6.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fayette County
$60,165/year
2.4% year-over-year change

Fayette County income by age

In Fayette County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $74,677. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $71,750 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $39,388, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,738 in earnings. Overall, 87.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $39,388 -1.8%
25 - 44 $74,677 1.3%
45 - 64 $71,750 6.1%
Over 65 $45,738 4.0%
Above poverty level
16,101
Below poverty level
2,224
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 16,101 87.9% -0.1%
Below poverty level 2,224 12.1% -4.5%

Employment in Fayette County

Workforce and job types in Fayette County

The job market in Fayette County is powered by 9,158 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 65.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.9% run their own businesses, 63.1% are employed by private companies, and 14.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,158
0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
6,017
Blue collar
3,141
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,017 65.7% 1.9%
Blue collar 3,141 34.3% -3.3%
Employer type
Self employees
13.9%
Private companies
63.1%
Governmental workers
14.3%
Not for profit companies
8.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,273 13.9% -2.5%
Private companies 5,779 63.1% -0.7%
Governmental workers 1,310 14.3% 0.7%
Not for profit companies 796 8.7% 9.6%
Unemployment rate
3.2%
-17.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Fayette County stands at 3.2%, 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 Fayette County

How people get around in Fayette County

In Fayette County, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.5% 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
1.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 7,910 86.8% 0.7%
Taxicab 12 0.1% -20.0%
Bus or trolleybus 23 0.2% 76.9%
Bicycle 25 0.3% 4.2%
Walk 407 4.5% 31.3%
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 Fayette County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50629 2,082 800 $103,106 $135,191
50650 648 286 $57,500 $76,035
50655 739 314 $58,750 $79,785
50662 6,576 2,937 $48,646 $70,281
50664 63 51 $51,741 $64,024
50606 803 342 $61,346 $99,130
50607 403 171 $54,583 $75,851
50671 182 92 $57,212 $70,878
50674 3,446 1,454 $72,794 $86,153
50681 481 188 $73,333 $112,353

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FAQs about Fayette County demographics 

What is the total population of Fayette County?

Fayette County has a total population of 19,288 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 -0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Fayette County?

The gender ratio in Fayette County is as follows:
  • 50.3% males (9,705 residents)
  • 49.7% females (9,583 residents)

What is the median age in Fayette County?

The median age in Fayette County is 43.9.

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

The age distribution in Fayette County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.2% (3,323 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.9% (2,480 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21% (4,050 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26% (5,011 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.9% (4,424 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Fayette County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fayette County is as follows:
  • White: 92.2% (17,784 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.8% (153 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (69 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (177 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (1 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.3% (1,026 residents)
  • Other: 0.4% (78 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.5% of the population in Fayette County.

How many housing units are there in Fayette County?

There are 9,320 housing units in Fayette County, reflecting a -0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Fayette County has a total of 8,342 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fayette County?

Fayette County has a median household income of $60,165, representing a +2.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.8% in Fayette County, with a workforce of 9,158 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65.7% (6,017 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34.3% (3,141 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.9% (1,273 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.1% (5,779 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.3% (1,310 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.7% (796 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