Norwalk, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
14,183
4.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$102,722/yr
8.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,820
5.0% year-over-year change

Norwalk population

How many people live in Norwalk

Norwalk is home to 14,183 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.3% of Norwalk locals are male, and 52.7% are female.

Total population
14,183
4.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.3%
6,713
Female
52.7%
7,470
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,713 47.3% 2.5%
Female 7,470 52.7% 5.8%
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 Norwalk is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 22.2% are children under 15, then 8.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.6% of the population, while another 25.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
22.2%
15 to 24
8.8%
25 to 44
29.6%
45 to 64
25.3%
Over 65
14.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,152 22.2% -0.4%
15 to 24 1,241 8.8% 2.1%
25 to 44 4,196 29.6% 4.6%
45 to 64 3,592 25.3% 1.4%
Over 65 2,002 14.1% 19.6%
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 Norwalk, 98.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 94.4% of locals are Caucasian, 0.1% are African American and 1.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.1%
Non-citizens
0.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 13,924 98.2% 3.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 158 1.1% -1.2%
Non-citizens 101 0.7% 621.4%
Racial breakdown
White
94.4%
Black or African American
0.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4%
Other
0.2%
Value Percent
White 13,385 94.4%
Black or African American 9 0.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 15 0.1%
Asian 167 1.2%
Two or more races 571 4%
Other 36 0.2%

Households in Norwalk

A peek inside Norwalk households

Norwalk has 5,610 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 69% are families, while the remaining 31% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,610
6.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,740
Family households
3,870
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,740 31% 6.5%
Family households 3,870 69% 5.9%
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 Norwalk

The housing landscape of Norwalk

Norwalk's housing consists of 5,820 units, with 73.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9.4% 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 0.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,820
5.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,268 73.3%
1 unit, attached 546 9.4%
3 or 4 units 248 4.3%
5 to 9 units 318 5.5%
10 to 19 units 95 1.6%
20 to 49 units 217 3.7%
50 or more units 107 1.8%
Mobile home 21 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
369
40.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Norwalk

In Norwalk, the median construction year is 2002. About 4.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 20.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 26.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 6.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 248 4.3% -4.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 14 0.2% -6.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 329 5.6% -6.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 349 6% -16.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 605 10.4% -8.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 715 12.3% 13.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 459 7.9% -1.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,177 20.2% -4.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,555 26.7% 25.3%
Built in 2020 or later 369 6.3% 40.8%
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.

Norwalk occupancy rates

Out of the 5,610 occupied housing units in Norwalk, 82.5% are owner-occupied, while 17.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,610
6.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
981
Owner occupied
4,629
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 981 17.5% 21.0%
Owner occupied 4,629 82.5% 3.4%
Unoccupied housing units
3.6%
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.

Norwalk housing costs

Housing costs in Norwalk come to a median of $1,453 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $838.

Median housing costs per month
$1,453/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 Norwalk
$838/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 Norwalk

Norwalk education at a glance

About 23.8% of the population in Norwalk went to high school, while 25.6% pursued college studies. Another 12.8% earned an associate degree and 26.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 72 0.7% 148.3%
High school diploma 2,484 23.8% 4.5%
College diploma 2,669 25.6% 16.6%
Associate degree 1,337 12.8% -3.2%
Bachelor's degree 2,746 26.4% 4.4%
Graduate degree 1,105 10.6% -5.0%
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 Norwalk

How much people earn in Norwalk

The average annual household income in Norwalk was $124,083 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 $102,722, reflecting a +8.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Norwalk
$124,083/year
2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Norwalk
$102,722/year
8.6% year-over-year change

Norwalk income by age

In Norwalk, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $111,250. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $118,804 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $38,226, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $57,045 in earnings. Overall, 95.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $38,226 -5.0%
25 - 44 $111,250 9.7%
45 - 64 $118,804 9.2%
Over 65 $57,045 8.1%
Above poverty level
13,358
Below poverty level
584
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 13,358 95.8% 4.0%
Below poverty level 584 4.2% 37.1%

Average renter income in Norwalk

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Norwalk, their median household income was $49,231 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 20.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$49,231
Rent-to-income ratio
20.4%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Norwalk

Workforce and job types in Norwalk

The job market in Norwalk is powered by 7,477 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.6% run their own businesses, 68.3% are employed by private companies, and 13.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,477
1.7% year-over-year change
White collar
6,190
Blue collar
1,287
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,190 82.8% 3.8%
Blue collar 1,287 17.2% -7.3%
Employer type
Self employees
9.6%
Private companies
68.3%
Governmental workers
13.7%
Not for profit companies
8.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 716 9.6% 7.8%
Private companies 5,110 68.3% 5.6%
Governmental workers 1,022 13.7% -7.3%
Not for profit companies 629 8.4% -15.3%
Unemployment rate
3.4%
28.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Norwalk stands at 3.4%, 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 Norwalk

How people get around in Norwalk

In Norwalk, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 77.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.9% 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
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,707 77.6% -1.9%
Bicycle 21 0.3% 5.0%
Walk 142 1.9% 42.0%
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 Norwalk by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50211 16,835 6,546 $103,712 $122,442

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FAQs about Norwalk demographics 

What is the total population of Norwalk?

Norwalk has a total population of 14,183 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 +4.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Norwalk?

The gender ratio in Norwalk is as follows:
  • 47.3% males (6,713 residents)
  • 52.7% females (7,470 residents)

What is the median age in Norwalk?

The median age in Norwalk is 37.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Norwalk?

The age distribution in Norwalk is as follows:
  • Under 15: 22.2% (3,152 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8.8% (1,241 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.6% (4,196 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.3% (3,592 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.1% (2,002 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Norwalk?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Norwalk is as follows:
  • White: 94.4% (13,385 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.1% (9 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (15 residents)
  • Asian: 1.2% (167 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4% (571 residents)
  • Other: 0.2% (36 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.2% of the population in Norwalk.

How many housing units are there in Norwalk?

There are 5,820 housing units in Norwalk, reflecting a +5.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Norwalk has a total of 5,610 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Norwalk?

Norwalk has a median household income of $102,722, representing a +8.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Norwalk?

The employment rate is 96.6% in Norwalk, with a workforce of 7,477 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.8% (6,190 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.2% (1,287 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.6% (716 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.3% (5,110 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.7% (1,022 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.4% (629 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