Fort Dodge, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
24,827
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,649/yr
-1.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
11,475
-0.1% year-over-year change

Fort Dodge population

How many people live in Fort Dodge

Fort Dodge is home to 24,827 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.6% of Fort Dodge locals are male, and 48.4% are female.

Total population
24,827
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.6%
12,817
Female
48.4%
12,010
Value Percent YoY change
Male 12,817 51.6% -0.3%
Female 12,010 48.4% 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 Fort Dodge is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.6% are children under 15, then 17.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.2% of the population, while another 22.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.6%
15 to 24
17.9%
25 to 44
24.2%
45 to 64
22.3%
Over 65
19%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,127 16.6% 1.5%
15 to 24 4,452 17.9% 4.0%
25 to 44 5,997 24.2% -1.9%
45 to 64 5,538 22.3% 0.8%
Over 65 4,713 19% -2.5%
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 Fort Dodge, 95.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 82.7% of locals are Caucasian, 4.6% are African American and 1.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.1%
Non-citizens
3.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 23,674 95.4% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 279 1.1% -7.6%
Non-citizens 874 3.5% -7.9%
Racial breakdown
White
82.7%
Black or African American
4.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.2%
Other
1.6%
Value Percent
White 20,522 82.7%
Black or African American 1,149 4.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 84 0.3%
Asian 396 1.6%
Two or more races 2,282 9.2%
Other 394 1.6%

Households in Fort Dodge

A peek inside Fort Dodge households

Fort Dodge has 10,272 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 48.3% are families, while the remaining 51.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
10,272
-2.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,312
Family households
4,960
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,312 51.7% -3.3%
Family households 4,960 48.3% -2.0%
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 Fort Dodge

The housing landscape of Fort Dodge

Fort Dodge's housing consists of 11,475 units, with 67.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.1% 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 2.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
11,475
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,768 67.7%
1 unit, attached 357 3.1%
2 units 746 6.5%
3 or 4 units 701 6.1%
5 to 9 units 241 2.1%
10 to 19 units 477 4.2%
20 to 49 units 418 3.6%
50 or more units 480 4.2%
Mobile home 287 2.5%
Homes built since 2020
97
130.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fort Dodge

In Fort Dodge, the median construction year is 1957. About 32.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,687 32.1% -3.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 884 7.7% 17.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,778 15.5% -8.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,175 10.2% 14.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,373 12% -14.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 704 6.1% 6.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 562 4.9% 5.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 641 5.6% 12.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 574 5% 9.8%
Built in 2020 or later 97 0.8% 130.9%
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.

Fort Dodge occupancy rates

Out of the 10,272 occupied housing units in Fort Dodge, 64.4% are owner-occupied, while 35.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
10,272
-2.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,653
Owner occupied
6,619
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,653 35.6% -3.9%
Owner occupied 6,619 64.4% -2.0%
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.

Fort Dodge housing costs

Housing costs in Fort Dodge come to a median of $811 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $785.

Median housing costs per month
$811/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 Fort Dodge
$785/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 Fort Dodge

Fort Dodge education at a glance

About 41.3% of the population in Fort Dodge went to high school, while 26.3% pursued college studies. Another 12.6% earned an associate degree and 13.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 306 1.6% -23.9%
High school diploma 8,132 41.3% 0.9%
College diploma 5,179 26.3% -8.8%
Associate degree 2,477 12.6% 11.7%
Bachelor's degree 2,647 13.4% 4.2%
Graduate degree 936 4.8% 8.7%
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 Fort Dodge

How much people earn in Fort Dodge

The average annual household income in Fort Dodge was $78,288 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,649, reflecting a -1.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fort Dodge
$78,288/year
2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fort Dodge
$60,649/year
-1.8% year-over-year change

Fort Dodge income by age

In Fort Dodge, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $72,967. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $72,276 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $44,375, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $43,944 in earnings. Overall, 83.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $44,375 -18.6%
25 - 44 $72,967 -5.3%
45 - 64 $72,276 3.8%
Over 65 $43,944 6.7%
Above poverty level
18,371
Below poverty level
3,524
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 18,371 83.9% -1.7%
Below poverty level 3,524 16.1% 10.7%

Average renter income in Fort Dodge

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Fort Dodge, their median household income was $34,141 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 27.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$34,141
Rent-to-income ratio
27.6%
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 Fort Dodge

Workforce and job types in Fort Dodge

The job market in Fort Dodge is powered by 11,616 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.4% run their own businesses, 70.2% are employed by private companies, and 12.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
11,616
1.3% year-over-year change
White collar
8,277
Blue collar
3,339
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 8,277 71.3% 1.5%
Blue collar 3,339 28.7% 0.8%
Employer type
Self employees
7.4%
Private companies
70.2%
Governmental workers
12.2%
Not for profit companies
10.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 857 7.4% 12.8%
Private companies 8,149 70.2% 3.3%
Governmental workers 1,411 12.2% -9.1%
Not for profit companies 1,199 10.3% -5.2%
Unemployment rate
6.0%
51.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Fort Dodge stands at 6%, 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 Fort Dodge

How people get around in Fort Dodge

Commuting methods vary: 89% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.4% 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 10,171 89% -0.2%
Taxicab 217 1.9% 13.6%
Bus or trolleybus 46 0.4% 318.2%
Bicycle 84 0.7% 121.0%
Walk 274 2.4% -21.9%
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 Fort Dodge by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50501 28,823 11,899 $66,888 $81,687

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FAQs about Fort Dodge demographics 

What is the total population of Fort Dodge?

Fort Dodge has a total population of 24,827 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 Fort Dodge?

The gender ratio in Fort Dodge is as follows:
  • 51.6% males (12,817 residents)
  • 48.4% females (12,010 residents)

What is the median age in Fort Dodge?

The median age in Fort Dodge is 37.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Fort Dodge?

The age distribution in Fort Dodge is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.6% (4,127 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 17.9% (4,452 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.2% (5,997 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.3% (5,538 residents)
  • Over 65: 19% (4,713 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Fort Dodge?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fort Dodge is as follows:
  • White: 82.7% (20,522 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.6% (1,149 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (84 residents)
  • Asian: 1.6% (396 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.2% (2,282 residents)
  • Other: 1.6% (394 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.4% of the population in Fort Dodge.

How many housing units are there in Fort Dodge?

There are 11,475 housing units in Fort Dodge, reflecting a -0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Fort Dodge has a total of 10,272 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fort Dodge?

Fort Dodge has a median household income of $60,649, representing a -1.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Fort Dodge?

The employment rate is 94% in Fort Dodge, with a workforce of 11,616 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.3% (8,277 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.7% (3,339 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.4% (857 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.2% (8,149 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.2% (1,411 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.3% (1,199 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