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

Total population
32,893
-0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$62,382/yr
4.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
15,794
-0.1% year-over-year change

Lee County population

How many people live in Lee County

Lee County is home to 32,893 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.2% of Lee County locals are male, and 49.8% are female.

Total population
32,893
-0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.2%
16,500
Female
49.8%
16,393
Value Percent YoY change
Male 16,500 50.2% -0.5%
Female 16,393 49.8% -1.2%
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 Lee County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.7% are children under 15, then 10.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.8% of the population, while another 25.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.7%
15 to 24
10.5%
25 to 44
23.8%
45 to 64
25.8%
Over 65
22.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,814 17.7% -1.6%
15 to 24 3,458 10.5% -1.8%
25 to 44 7,821 23.8% 0.5%
45 to 64 8,491 25.8% -3.0%
Over 65 7,309 22.2% 1.4%
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 Lee County, 97.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91.1% of locals are Caucasian, 2.5% are African American and 0.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 4.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.3%
Non-citizens
0.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 32,150 97.7% -1.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 436 1.3% -3.5%
Non-citizens 307 0.9% 490.4%
Racial breakdown
White
91.1%
Black or African American
2.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
4.7%
Other
1.1%
Value Percent
White 29,953 91.1%
Black or African American 815 2.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 35 0.1%
Asian 185 0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 21 0.1%
Two or more races 1,536 4.7%
Other 348 1.1%

Households in Lee County

A peek inside Lee County households

Lee County has 14,323 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.9% are families, while the remaining 38.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
14,323
0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,463
Family households
8,860
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,463 38.1% -1.7%
Family households 8,860 61.9% 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 Lee County

The housing landscape of Lee County

Lee County's housing consists of 15,794 units, with 80.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.4% 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 3.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
15,794
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 12,726 80.6%
1 unit, attached 213 1.4%
2 units 382 2.4%
3 or 4 units 657 4.2%
5 to 9 units 200 1.3%
10 to 19 units 111 0.7%
20 to 49 units 363 2.3%
50 or more units 518 3.3%
Mobile home 595 3.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 29 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
68
195.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lee County

In Lee County, the median construction year is 1960. About 32.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.4% 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 5,106 32.3% -6.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 933 5.9% 19.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,858 11.8% -2.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,671 10.6% 10.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,627 16.6% 1.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 827 5.2% -1.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,305 8.3% 6.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 864 5.5% -5.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 535 3.4% -0.9%
Built in 2020 or later 68 0.4% 195.7%
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.

Lee County occupancy rates

Out of the 14,323 occupied housing units in Lee County, 76.3% are owner-occupied, while 23.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
14,323
0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,389
Owner occupied
10,934
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,389 23.7% -3.3%
Owner occupied 10,934 76.3% 1.2%
Unoccupied housing units
9.3%
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.

Lee County housing costs

Housing costs in Lee County come to a median of $847 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $835.

Median housing costs per month
$847/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 Lee County
$835/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 Lee County

Lee County education at a glance

About 41% of the population in Lee County went to high school, while 21% pursued college studies. Another 14.3% earned an associate degree and 14.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 794 3.1% 42.0%
High school diploma 10,625 41% -3.9%
College diploma 5,430 21% -2.7%
Associate degree 3,715 14.3% -0.6%
Bachelor's degree 3,770 14.6% -2.6%
Graduate degree 1,570 6.1% 20.9%
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 Lee County

How much people earn in Lee County

The average annual household income in Lee County was $79,169 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $62,382, reflecting a +4.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lee County
$79,169/year
6.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lee County
$62,382/year
4.3% year-over-year change

Lee County income by age

In Lee County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $68,917. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $73,706 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $39,226, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,102 in earnings. Overall, 86.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $39,226 11.6%
25 - 44 $68,917 3.4%
45 - 64 $73,706 5.1%
Over 65 $44,102 1.5%
Above poverty level
26,969
Below poverty level
4,064
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 26,969 86.9% -1.1%
Below poverty level 4,064 13.1% 0.1%

Employment in Lee County

Workforce and job types in Lee County

The job market in Lee County is powered by 14,700 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.2% run their own businesses, 64.7% are employed by private companies, and 17% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
14,700
-1.0% year-over-year change
White collar
10,646
Blue collar
4,054
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,646 72.4% 1.4%
Blue collar 4,054 27.6% -6.9%
Employer type
Self employees
9.2%
Private companies
64.7%
Governmental workers
17%
Not for profit companies
9.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,348 9.2% -6.3%
Private companies 9,507 64.7% -2.9%
Governmental workers 2,507 17% 0.2%
Not for profit companies 1,338 9.1% 19.1%
Unemployment rate
4.4%
11.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lee County stands at 4.4%, 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 Lee County

How people get around in Lee County

Commuting methods vary: 90.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.5% 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 13,086 90.2% -1.9%
Taxicab 42 0.3% 121.0%
Bus or trolleybus 28 0.2% -15.2%
Motorcycle 24 0.2% 26.3%
Bicycle 66 0.4% -32.6%
Walk 224 1.5% -13.8%
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 Lee County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
52649 913 342 $91,071 $121,932
52656 1,833 882 $83,750 $110,053
52619 441 234 $73,438 $93,475
52624 734 289 $109,861 $125,371
52625 2,338 887 $80,078 $102,300
52626 1,103 466 $59,342 $67,465
52627 12,677 5,635 $56,401 $72,285
52630 235 126 $55,714 $63,652
52632 11,711 5,102 $56,653 $70,573
52639 1,745 717 $68,625 $80,106

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FAQs about Lee County demographics 

What is the total population of Lee County?

Lee County has a total population of 32,893 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 -0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lee County?

The gender ratio in Lee County is as follows:
  • 50.2% males (16,500 residents)
  • 49.8% females (16,393 residents)

What is the median age in Lee County?

The median age in Lee County is 43.6.

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

The age distribution in Lee County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.7% (5,814 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.5% (3,458 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.8% (7,821 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.8% (8,491 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.2% (7,309 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lee County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lee County is as follows:
  • White: 91.1% (29,953 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.5% (815 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (35 residents)
  • Asian: 0.6% (185 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (21 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.7% (1,536 residents)
  • Other: 1.1% (348 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.7% of the population in Lee County.

How many housing units are there in Lee County?

There are 15,794 housing units in Lee County, 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 Lee County and what is the average household size?

Lee County has a total of 14,323 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lee County?

Lee County has a median household income of $62,382, representing a +4.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.6% in Lee County, with a workforce of 14,700 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.4% (10,646 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.6% (4,054 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.2% (1,348 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.7% (9,507 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17% (2,507 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.1% (1,338 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