Iowa City, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
75,752
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$58,546/yr
1.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
33,863
0.0% year-over-year change

Iowa City population

How many people live in Iowa City

Iowa City is home to 75,752 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.9% of Iowa City locals are male, and 51.1% are female.

Total population
75,752
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
37,038
Female
51.1%
38,714
Value Percent YoY change
Male 37,038 48.9% 0.8%
Female 38,714 51.1% 0.5%
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 Iowa City is 26, with the population distributed as follows: about 11.8% are children under 15, then 36.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.1% of the population, while another 15.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
26.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
11.8%
15 to 24
36.1%
25 to 44
24.1%
45 to 64
15.6%
Over 65
12.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 8,962 11.8% 1.5%
15 to 24 27,345 36.1% 1.0%
25 to 44 18,247 24.1% 0.1%
45 to 64 11,844 15.6% -1.2%
Over 65 9,354 12.4% 2.4%
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 Iowa City, 86.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 72.6% of locals are Caucasian, 9.5% are African American and 7.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
86.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.7%
Non-citizens
6.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 65,388 86.3% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 5,108 6.7% 4.3%
Non-citizens 5,256 6.9% -4.9%
Racial breakdown
White
72.6%
Black or African American
9.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
7.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.8%
Other
2.8%
Value Percent
White 55,006 72.6%
Black or African American 7,213 9.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 134 0.2%
Asian 5,395 7.1%
Two or more races 5,923 7.8%
Other 2,081 2.8%

Households in Iowa City

A peek inside Iowa City households

Iowa City has 30,816 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 40.4% are families, while the remaining 59.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
30,816
0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
18,353
Family households
12,463
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 18,353 59.6% 0.0%
Family households 12,463 40.4% 0.2%
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 Iowa City

The housing landscape of Iowa City

Iowa City's housing consists of 33,863 units, with 39.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9% 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 2.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
33,863
0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 13,469 39.8%
1 unit, attached 3,037 9%
2 units 1,146 3.4%
3 or 4 units 1,377 4.1%
5 to 9 units 3,361 9.9%
10 to 19 units 3,914 11.6%
20 to 49 units 3,802 11.2%
50 or more units 3,023 8.9%
Mobile home 710 2.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 24 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
705
104.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Iowa City

In Iowa City, the median construction year is 1985. About 11.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 16.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,999 11.8% 0.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 655 1.9% -6.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,402 7.1% 0.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,319 9.8% -1.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,781 14.1% -2.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,858 11.4% -3.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4,480 13.2% 5.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,103 12.1% -2.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 5,561 16.4% -2.5%
Built in 2020 or later 705 2.1% 104.3%
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.

Iowa City occupancy rates

Out of the 30,816 occupied housing units in Iowa City, 47.2% are owner-occupied, while 52.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
30,816
0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
16,271
Owner occupied
14,545
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 16,271 52.8% -1.6%
Owner occupied 14,545 47.2% 2.0%
Unoccupied housing units
9.0%
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.

Iowa City housing costs

Housing costs in Iowa City come to a median of $1,166 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,094.

Median housing costs per month
$1,166/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 Iowa City
$1,094/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 Iowa City

Iowa City education at a glance

About 18.9% of the population in Iowa City went to high school, while 30.8% pursued college studies. Another 6.1% earned an associate degree and 25% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 18.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 655 1% 13.7%
High school diploma 12,267 18.9% 3.2%
College diploma 19,979 30.8% -1.8%
Associate degree 3,946 6.1% 9.4%
Bachelor's degree 16,216 25% -2.1%
Graduate degree 11,872 18.3% 0.9%
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 Iowa City

How much people earn in Iowa City

The average annual household income in Iowa City was $90,456 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $58,546, reflecting a +1.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Iowa City
$90,456/year
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Iowa City
$58,546/year
1.8% year-over-year change

Iowa City income by age

In Iowa City, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $71,894. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $97,362 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $25,414, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $66,368 in earnings. Overall, 73.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $25,414 10.4%
25 - 44 $71,894 0.2%
45 - 64 $97,362 0.8%
Over 65 $66,368 4.7%
Above poverty level
50,413
Below poverty level
18,114
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 50,413 73.6% 0.3%
Below poverty level 18,114 26.4% 0.8%

Employment in Iowa City

Workforce and job types in Iowa City

The job market in Iowa City is powered by 43,145 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 86.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 13.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.2% run their own businesses, 52.9% are employed by private companies, and 30.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
43,145
0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
37,380
Blue collar
5,765
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 37,380 86.6% 0.7%
Blue collar 5,765 13.4% -2.6%
Employer type
Self employees
6.2%
Private companies
52.9%
Governmental workers
30.4%
Not for profit companies
10.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,660 6.2% 6.8%
Private companies 22,825 52.9% 1.2%
Governmental workers 13,101 30.4% -4.0%
Not for profit companies 4,559 10.6% 4.7%
Unemployment rate
4.6%
10.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Iowa City stands at 4.6%, 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 Iowa City

How people get around in Iowa City

Commuting methods vary: 62.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 14.6% 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 26,159 62.9% -1.4%
Taxicab 70 0.2% 40.0%
Bus or trolleybus 2,448 5.9% -12.7%
Subway or elevated 25 0.1% N/A
Ferryboat 25 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 176 0.4% 10.0%
Bicycle 1,178 2.8% -9.9%
Walk 6,075 14.6% 4.0%
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 Iowa City by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
52240 35,074 15,417 $52,960 $81,157
52242 4,688 21 $0 $0
52245 22,853 9,543 $78,020 $103,699
52246 22,308 9,651 $62,521 $106,808

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FAQs about Iowa City demographics 

What is the total population of Iowa City?

Iowa City has a total population of 75,752 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 +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Iowa City?

The gender ratio in Iowa City is as follows:
  • 48.9% males (37,038 residents)
  • 51.1% females (38,714 residents)

What is the median age in Iowa City?

The median age in Iowa City is 26.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Iowa City?

The age distribution in Iowa City is as follows:
  • Under 15: 11.8% (8,962 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 36.1% (27,345 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.1% (18,247 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 15.6% (11,844 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.4% (9,354 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Iowa City?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Iowa City is as follows:
  • White: 72.6% (55,006 residents)
  • Black or African American: 9.5% (7,213 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (134 residents)
  • Asian: 7.1% (5,395 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.8% (5,923 residents)
  • Other: 2.8% (2,081 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 86.3% of the population in Iowa City.

How many housing units are there in Iowa City?

There are 33,863 housing units in Iowa City, 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 Iowa City and what is the average household size?

Iowa City has a total of 30,816 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Iowa City?

Iowa City has a median household income of $58,546, 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 Iowa City?

The employment rate is 95.4% in Iowa City, with a workforce of 43,145 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 86.6% (37,380 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 13.4% (5,765 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.2% (2,660 residents)
  • Private companies: 52.9% (22,825 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 30.4% (13,101 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.6% (4,559 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