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

Total population
16,639
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$65,069/yr
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,011
-0.2% year-over-year change

Hardin County population

How many people live in Hardin County

Hardin County is home to 16,639 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.7% of Hardin County locals are male, and 49.3% are female.

Total population
16,639
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.7%
8,429
Female
49.3%
8,210
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,429 50.7% -0.1%
Female 8,210 49.3% -1.0%
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 Hardin County is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.2% are children under 15, then 11.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23% of the population, while another 26.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
45.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.2%
15 to 24
11.3%
25 to 44
23%
45 to 64
26.6%
Over 65
23.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,532 15.2% -1.3%
15 to 24 1,878 11.3% -3.8%
25 to 44 3,835 23% 0.6%
45 to 64 4,426 26.6% -2.6%
Over 65 3,968 23.8% 3.0%
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 Hardin County, 95.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91.1% of locals are Caucasian, 1.1% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.4%
Non-citizens
2.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 15,844 95.2% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 391 2.4% -2.5%
Non-citizens 404 2.4% 18.8%
Racial breakdown
White
91.1%
Black or African American
1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.9%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.4%
Other
2.6%
Value Percent
White 15,160 91.1%
Black or African American 180 1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 152 0.9%
Asian 149 0.9%
Two or more races 565 3.4%
Other 433 2.6%

Households in Hardin County

A peek inside Hardin County households

Hardin County has 7,038 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.6% are families, while the remaining 37.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,038
0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,636
Family households
4,402
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,636 37.4% -1.1%
Family households 4,402 62.6% 1.3%
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 Hardin County

The housing landscape of Hardin County

Hardin County's housing consists of 8,011 units, with 83.6% 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 2.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,011
-0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,698 83.6%
1 unit, attached 102 1.3%
2 units 193 2.4%
3 or 4 units 435 5.4%
5 to 9 units 142 1.8%
10 to 19 units 181 2.3%
20 to 49 units 62 0.8%
50 or more units 7 0.1%
Mobile home 191 2.4%
Homes built since 2020
35
66.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Hardin County

In Hardin County, the median construction year is 1956. About 34.4% 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, 3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2% 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 2,759 34.4% -4.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 615 7.7% -8.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,100 13.7% 3.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,035 12.9% 19.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,212 15.1% 1.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 480 6% 1.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 383 4.8% -18.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 236 3% 14.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 156 2% -12.8%
Built in 2020 or later 35 0.4% 66.7%
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.

Hardin County occupancy rates

Out of the 7,038 occupied housing units in Hardin County, 73.6% are owner-occupied, while 26.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,038
0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,861
Owner occupied
5,177
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,861 26.4% -0.5%
Owner occupied 5,177 73.6% 0.7%
Unoccupied housing units
12.1%
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.

Hardin County housing costs

Housing costs in Hardin County come to a median of $807 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $795.

Median housing costs per month
$807/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 Hardin County
$795/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 Hardin County

Hardin County education at a glance

About 38.4% of the population in Hardin County went to high school, while 23.4% pursued college studies. Another 15.5% earned an associate degree and 15.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 253 1.9% 26.5%
High school diploma 5,172 38.4% -2.8%
College diploma 3,152 23.4% -2.2%
Associate degree 2,085 15.5% 1.2%
Bachelor's degree 2,104 15.6% 4.9%
Graduate degree 716 5.3% 2.1%
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 Hardin County

How much people earn in Hardin County

The average annual household income in Hardin County was $79,622 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $65,069, reflecting a +0.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Hardin County
$79,622/year
4.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Hardin County
$65,069/year
0.2% year-over-year change

Hardin County income by age

In Hardin County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $71,886. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $79,952 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $53,125, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $54,750 in earnings. Overall, 90.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $53,125 26.7%
25 - 44 $71,886 -4.2%
45 - 64 $79,952 1.6%
Over 65 $54,750 6.2%
Above poverty level
14,323
Below poverty level
1,521
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 14,323 90.4% -1.5%
Below poverty level 1,521 9.6% 11.6%

Employment in Hardin County

Workforce and job types in Hardin County

The job market in Hardin County is powered by 8,191 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 31.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13% run their own businesses, 66.5% are employed by private companies, and 14.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,191
-0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
5,584
Blue collar
2,607
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,584 68.2% -0.0%
Blue collar 2,607 31.8% -1.8%
Employer type
Self employees
13%
Private companies
66.5%
Governmental workers
14.8%
Not for profit companies
5.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,067 13% -8.7%
Private companies 5,446 66.5% -0.8%
Governmental workers 1,216 14.8% 6.7%
Not for profit companies 462 5.6% 3.4%
Unemployment rate
4.3%
16.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Hardin County stands at 4.3%, 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 Hardin County

How people get around in Hardin County

In Hardin County, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 84.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.9% 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
0.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,807 84.4% -0.3%
Bus or trolleybus 48 0.6% 23.1%
Walk 394 4.9% -3.0%
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 Hardin County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50006 1,437 612 $69,783 $86,384
50102 36 23 $0 $72,035
50122 1,297 566 $81,739 $96,849
50126 6,368 2,772 $55,185 $72,179
50154 394 187 $69,219 $84,188
50206 349 163 $79,306 $74,544
50230 1,145 468 $87,778 $91,663
50258 958 405 $83,988 $88,428
50627 3,276 1,219 $74,536 $83,688
50601 2,299 1,048 $66,250 $72,863

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Hardin County demographics 

What is the total population of Hardin County?

Hardin County has a total population of 16,639 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 Hardin County?

The gender ratio in Hardin County is as follows:
  • 50.7% males (8,429 residents)
  • 49.3% females (8,210 residents)

What is the median age in Hardin County?

The median age in Hardin County is 45.4.

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

The age distribution in Hardin County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.2% (2,532 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.3% (1,878 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23% (3,835 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.6% (4,426 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.8% (3,968 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Hardin County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Hardin County is as follows:
  • White: 91.1% (15,160 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.1% (180 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.9% (152 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (149 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.4% (565 residents)
  • Other: 2.6% (433 residents)

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

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

How many housing units are there in Hardin County?

There are 8,011 housing units in Hardin County, reflecting a -0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Hardin County has a total of 7,038 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Hardin County?

Hardin County has a median household income of $65,069, representing a +0.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.7% in Hardin County, with a workforce of 8,191 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68.2% (5,584 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 31.8% (2,607 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13% (1,067 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.5% (5,446 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.8% (1,216 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.6% (462 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