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

Total population
42,559
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$69,396/yr
-0.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
18,454
0.1% year-over-year change

Muscatine County population

How many people live in Muscatine County

Muscatine County is home to 42,559 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.3% of Muscatine County locals are male, and 49.7% are female.

Total population
42,559
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.3%
21,402
Female
49.7%
21,157
Value Percent YoY change
Male 21,402 50.3% -0.2%
Female 21,157 49.7% -0.6%
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 Muscatine County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.5% are children under 15, then 12.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.2% of the population, while another 25.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.5%
15 to 24
12.6%
25 to 44
24.2%
45 to 64
25.7%
Over 65
18.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 8,285 19.5% -1.9%
15 to 24 5,382 12.6% -0.9%
25 to 44 10,276 24.2% -1.2%
45 to 64 10,925 25.7% -0.2%
Over 65 7,691 18.1% 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 Muscatine County, 92.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 80.6% of locals are Caucasian, 2.2% are African American and 0.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.1%
Non-citizens
3.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 39,234 92.2% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,731 4.1% -4.2%
Non-citizens 1,594 3.8% -7.2%
Racial breakdown
White
80.6%
Black or African American
2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8%
Other
8.2%
Value Percent
White 34,297 80.6%
Black or African American 958 2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 136 0.3%
Asian 272 0.6%
Two or more races 3,405 8%
Other 3,491 8.2%

Households in Muscatine County

A peek inside Muscatine County households

Muscatine County has 17,345 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64.2% are families, while the remaining 35.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
17,345
1.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
6,210
Family households
11,135
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,210 35.8% 8.9%
Family households 11,135 64.2% -2.9%
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 Muscatine County

The housing landscape of Muscatine County

Muscatine County's housing consists of 18,454 units, with 75.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.6% 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 5.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
18,454
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 13,943 75.6%
1 unit, attached 486 2.6%
2 units 847 4.6%
3 or 4 units 714 3.9%
5 to 9 units 361 2%
10 to 19 units 513 2.8%
20 to 49 units 188 1%
50 or more units 339 1.8%
Mobile home 1,049 5.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 14 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
145
326.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Muscatine County

In Muscatine County, the median construction year is 1970. About 26.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3% 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 4,953 26.8% -8.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,009 5.5% 5.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,330 7.2% 7.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,887 10.2% 4.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,778 15% -0.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,765 9.6% -2.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,111 11.4% 2.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,924 10.4% 6.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 552 3% 6.4%
Built in 2020 or later 145 0.8% 326.5%
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.

Muscatine County occupancy rates

Out of the 17,345 occupied housing units in Muscatine County, 73.9% are owner-occupied, while 26.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
17,345
1.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,525
Owner occupied
12,820
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,525 26.1% 4.8%
Owner occupied 12,820 73.9% -0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
6.0%
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.

Muscatine County housing costs

Housing costs in Muscatine County come to a median of $1,002 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $971.

Median housing costs per month
$1,002/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 Muscatine County
$971/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 Muscatine County

Muscatine County education at a glance

About 44.3% of the population in Muscatine County went to high school, while 20.6% pursued college studies. Another 10.6% earned an associate degree and 14.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,046 3.2% 6.5%
High school diploma 14,337 44.3% 1.9%
College diploma 6,674 20.6% -2.0%
Associate degree 3,427 10.6% -5.5%
Bachelor's degree 4,831 14.9% -2.8%
Graduate degree 2,073 6.4% 7.7%
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 Muscatine County

How much people earn in Muscatine County

The average annual household income in Muscatine County was $86,373 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $69,396, reflecting a -0.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Muscatine County
$86,373/year
-1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Muscatine County
$69,396/year
-0.2% year-over-year change

Muscatine County income by age

In Muscatine County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $75,633. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $78,952 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $55,516, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $53,936 in earnings. Overall, 86.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $55,516 13.0%
25 - 44 $75,633 1.8%
45 - 64 $78,952 -4.6%
Over 65 $53,936 0.3%
Above poverty level
35,813
Below poverty level
5,600
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 35,813 86.5% -2.6%
Below poverty level 5,600 13.5% 16.4%

Employment in Muscatine County

Workforce and job types in Muscatine County

The job market in Muscatine County is powered by 21,051 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 64.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 35.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.8% run their own businesses, 68.7% are employed by private companies, and 15% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
21,051
-0.9% year-over-year change
White collar
13,624
Blue collar
7,427
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 13,624 64.7% -0.7%
Blue collar 7,427 35.3% -1.3%
Employer type
Self employees
7.8%
Private companies
68.7%
Governmental workers
15%
Not for profit companies
8.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,652 7.8% -3.6%
Private companies 14,470 68.7% -1.1%
Governmental workers 3,156 15% -2.4%
Not for profit companies 1,773 8.4% 6.6%
Unemployment rate
3.2%
-14.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Muscatine County stands at 3.2%, 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 Muscatine County

How people get around in Muscatine County

In Muscatine County, the average commute time is 19 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 89.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
19 min
-2.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 18,686 89.6% -1.5%
Taxicab 3 0% 0.0%
Bus or trolleybus 27 0.1% -67.5%
Motorcycle 44 0.2% -10.2%
Bicycle 9 0% 0.0%
Walk 484 2.3% -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 Muscatine County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
52754 1,533 570 $104,250 $106,945
52760 992 413 $86,397 $119,344
52761 29,474 11,932 $62,098 $81,712
52766 677 310 $61,865 $75,858
52769 698 266 $88,750 $113,248
52720 964 410 $73,571 $98,612
52726 5,160 2,273 $104,250 $119,238
52739 788 329 $74,375 $72,441
52747 2,160 851 $82,313 $117,634
52749 1,049 339 $103,424 $102,995

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FAQs about Muscatine County demographics 

What is the total population of Muscatine County?

Muscatine County has a total population of 42,559 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 -0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Muscatine County?

The gender ratio in Muscatine County is as follows:
  • 50.3% males (21,402 residents)
  • 49.7% females (21,157 residents)

What is the median age in Muscatine County?

The median age in Muscatine County is 39.6.

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

The age distribution in Muscatine County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.5% (8,285 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.6% (5,382 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.2% (10,276 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.7% (10,925 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.1% (7,691 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Muscatine County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Muscatine County is as follows:
  • White: 80.6% (34,297 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.2% (958 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (136 residents)
  • Asian: 0.6% (272 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8% (3,405 residents)
  • Other: 8.2% (3,491 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.2% of the population in Muscatine County.

How many housing units are there in Muscatine County?

There are 18,454 housing units in Muscatine 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 Muscatine County and what is the average household size?

Muscatine County has a total of 17,345 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Muscatine County?

Muscatine County has a median household income of $69,396, 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 Muscatine County?

The employment rate is 96.8% in Muscatine County, with a workforce of 21,051 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 64.7% (13,624 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 35.3% (7,427 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.8% (1,652 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.7% (14,470 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15% (3,156 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.4% (1,773 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