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

Total population
22,021
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$70,940/yr
2.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,728
0.2% year-over-year change

Mahaska County population

How many people live in Mahaska County

Mahaska County is home to 22,021 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.8% of Mahaska County locals are male, and 49.2% are female.

Total population
22,021
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.8%
11,189
Female
49.2%
10,832
Value Percent YoY change
Male 11,189 50.8% -0.6%
Female 10,832 49.2% 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 Mahaska County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.7% are children under 15, then 13.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.5% of the population, while another 23.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
39
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.7%
15 to 24
13.8%
25 to 44
23.5%
45 to 64
23.9%
Over 65
19.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,336 19.7% -1.3%
15 to 24 3,043 13.8% 0.5%
25 to 44 5,172 23.5% 1.2%
45 to 64 5,271 23.9% -0.9%
Over 65 4,199 19.1% 0.2%
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 Mahaska County, 97.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92.2% of locals are Caucasian, 1.3% are African American and 1% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 4.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.7%
Non-citizens
1.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 21,401 97.2% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 372 1.7% 4.8%
Non-citizens 248 1.1% 1.2%
Racial breakdown
White
92.2%
Black or African American
1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
4.3%
Other
0.7%
Value Percent
White 20,310 92.2%
Black or African American 293 1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 18 0.1%
Asian 229 1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 65 0.3%
Two or more races 955 4.3%
Other 151 0.7%

Households in Mahaska County

A peek inside Mahaska County households

Mahaska County has 8,743 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.1% are families, while the remaining 36.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,743
-1.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,230
Family households
5,513
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,230 36.9% 3.7%
Family households 5,513 63.1% -4.5%
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 Mahaska County

The housing landscape of Mahaska County

Mahaska County's housing consists of 9,728 units, with 78.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.5% 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 4.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,728
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,602 78.2%
1 unit, attached 143 1.5%
2 units 479 4.9%
3 or 4 units 319 3.3%
5 to 9 units 343 3.5%
10 to 19 units 207 2.1%
20 to 49 units 101 1%
50 or more units 49 0.5%
Mobile home 479 4.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 6 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
23
130.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Mahaska County

In Mahaska County, the median construction year is 1965. About 34.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,353 34.5% 2.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 362 3.7% -15.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 898 9.2% -5.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 492 5.1% -23.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,450 14.9% -2.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,021 10.5% 26.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 753 7.7% -3.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 801 8.2% 3.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 575 5.9% 7.5%
Built in 2020 or later 23 0.2% 130.0%
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.

Mahaska County occupancy rates

Out of the 8,743 occupied housing units in Mahaska County, 68% are owner-occupied, while 32% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,743
-1.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,801
Owner occupied
5,942
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,801 32% -2.1%
Owner occupied 5,942 68% -1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
10.1%
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.

Mahaska County housing costs

Housing costs in Mahaska County come to a median of $854 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $793.

Median housing costs per month
$854/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 Mahaska County
$793/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 Mahaska County

Mahaska County education at a glance

About 40.8% of the population in Mahaska County went to high school, while 21.5% pursued college studies. Another 13.2% earned an associate degree and 16.8% 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 412 2.4% 26.4%
High school diploma 6,855 40.8% -4.2%
College diploma 3,618 21.5% 1.8%
Associate degree 2,213 13.2% 4.8%
Bachelor's degree 2,817 16.8% 2.1%
Graduate degree 893 5.3% 1.6%
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 Mahaska County

How much people earn in Mahaska County

The average annual household income in Mahaska County was $86,931 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $70,940, reflecting a +2.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Mahaska County
$86,931/year
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Mahaska County
$70,940/year
2.8% year-over-year change

Mahaska County income by age

In Mahaska County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $82,813. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $84,412 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $46,875, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,470 in earnings. Overall, 87.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $46,875 4.9%
25 - 44 $82,813 3.0%
45 - 64 $84,412 5.8%
Over 65 $50,470 7.2%
Above poverty level
18,383
Below poverty level
2,663
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 18,383 87.4% -1.2%
Below poverty level 2,663 12.6% 5.9%

Employment in Mahaska County

Workforce and job types in Mahaska County

The job market in Mahaska County is powered by 10,947 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 65.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 14.5% run their own businesses, 65.4% are employed by private companies, and 10.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
10,947
-2.6% year-over-year change
White collar
7,185
Blue collar
3,762
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 7,185 65.6% -4.1%
Blue collar 3,762 34.4% 0.2%
Employer type
Self employees
14.5%
Private companies
65.4%
Governmental workers
10.3%
Not for profit companies
9.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,591 14.5% -5.1%
Private companies 7,161 65.4% -3.3%
Governmental workers 1,125 10.3% -0.1%
Not for profit companies 1,070 9.8% 3.8%
Unemployment rate
3.5%
3.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Mahaska County stands at 3.5%, 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 Mahaska County

How people get around in Mahaska County

In Mahaska County, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 88.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
1.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 9,605 88.9% -3.7%
Bus or trolleybus 18 0.2% 80.0%
Motorcycle 16 0.2% 33.3%
Walk 324 3% -20.6%
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 Mahaska County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50027 148 78 $52,976 $56,444
50044 901 405 $75,417 $79,873
50104 103 52 $55,625 $65,142
50143 538 206 $86,023 $133,562
50207 2,325 1,044 $76,053 $94,021
50219 14,416 5,289 $86,807 $113,122
50256 643 299 $83,438 $152,863
50268 908 390 $59,118 $63,239
52534 321 153 $57,986 $86,374
52543 541 170 $83,511 $107,554

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FAQs about Mahaska County demographics 

What is the total population of Mahaska County?

Mahaska County has a total population of 22,021 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Mahaska County?

The gender ratio in Mahaska County is as follows:
  • 50.8% males (11,189 residents)
  • 49.2% females (10,832 residents)

What is the median age in Mahaska County?

The median age in Mahaska County is 39.

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

The age distribution in Mahaska County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.7% (4,336 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.8% (3,043 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.5% (5,172 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.9% (5,271 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.1% (4,199 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Mahaska County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Mahaska County is as follows:
  • White: 92.2% (20,310 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.3% (293 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (18 residents)
  • Asian: 1% (229 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (65 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.3% (955 residents)
  • Other: 0.7% (151 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.2% of the population in Mahaska County.

How many housing units are there in Mahaska County?

There are 9,728 housing units in Mahaska 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 Mahaska County and what is the average household size?

Mahaska County has a total of 8,743 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Mahaska County?

Mahaska County has a median household income of $70,940, representing a +2.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.5% in Mahaska County, with a workforce of 10,947 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65.6% (7,185 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34.4% (3,762 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 14.5% (1,591 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.4% (7,161 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.3% (1,125 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.8% (1,070 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