Oskaloosa, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
11,504
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$64,004/yr
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,162
0.5% year-over-year change

Oskaloosa population

How many people live in Oskaloosa

Oskaloosa is home to 11,504 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.5% of Oskaloosa locals are male, and 50.5% are female.

Total population
11,504
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.5%
5,693
Female
50.5%
5,811
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,693 49.5% -0.3%
Female 5,811 50.5% 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 Oskaloosa is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.6% are children under 15, then 15.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.8% of the population, while another 21% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.6%
15 to 24
15.3%
25 to 44
24.8%
45 to 64
21%
Over 65
20.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,135 18.6% -3.3%
15 to 24 1,759 15.3% 5.0%
25 to 44 2,853 24.8% 3.6%
45 to 64 2,410 21% -4.3%
Over 65 2,347 20.4% 0.4%
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 Oskaloosa, 96.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 89.9% of locals are Caucasian, 2.1% are African American and 1.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.6% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 4.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.2%
Non-citizens
1.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 11,073 96.2% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 252 2.2% 24.1%
Non-citizens 179 1.6% 6.5%
Racial breakdown
White
89.9%
Black or African American
2.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.6%
Two or more races
4.6%
Other
1.1%
Value Percent
White 10,338 89.9%
Black or African American 241 2.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 17 0.2%
Asian 189 1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 63 0.6%
Two or more races 529 4.6%
Other 127 1.1%

Households in Oskaloosa

A peek inside Oskaloosa households

Oskaloosa has 4,590 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.9% are families, while the remaining 40.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,590
-1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,839
Family households
2,751
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,839 40.1% 4.7%
Family households 2,751 59.9% -5.1%
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 Oskaloosa

The housing landscape of Oskaloosa

Oskaloosa's housing consists of 5,162 units, with 70.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.3% 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 3.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,162
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,632 70.4%
1 unit, attached 119 2.3%
2 units 396 7.7%
3 or 4 units 191 3.7%
5 to 9 units 322 6.2%
10 to 19 units 199 3.9%
20 to 49 units 89 1.7%
50 or more units 49 1%
Mobile home 165 3.2%
Homes built since 2020
13
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Oskaloosa

In Oskaloosa, the median construction year is 1966. About 34.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.1% 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 1,761 34.1% 6.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 206 4% -24.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 457 8.8% -9.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 274 5.3% -20.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 715 13.8% -11.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 631 12.2% 33.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 369 7.2% 1.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 368 7.1% -5.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 368 7.1% 16.5%
Built in 2020 or later 13 0.2% N/A
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.

Oskaloosa occupancy rates

Out of the 4,590 occupied housing units in Oskaloosa, 60.8% are owner-occupied, while 39.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,590
-1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,799
Owner occupied
2,791
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,799 39.2% -2.3%
Owner occupied 2,791 60.8% -0.8%
Unoccupied housing units
11.1%
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.

Oskaloosa housing costs

Housing costs in Oskaloosa come to a median of $884 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $831.

Median housing costs per month
$884/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 Oskaloosa
$831/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 Oskaloosa

Oskaloosa education at a glance

About 40.2% of the population in Oskaloosa went to high school, while 22.9% pursued college studies. Another 11.7% earned an associate degree and 17.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 193 2.2% 14.9%
High school diploma 3,616 40.2% 0.8%
College diploma 2,056 22.9% 2.3%
Associate degree 1,052 11.7% 8.3%
Bachelor's degree 1,561 17.4% -4.6%
Graduate degree 505 5.6% -6.7%
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 Oskaloosa

How much people earn in Oskaloosa

The average annual household income in Oskaloosa was $80,779 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $64,004, reflecting a +3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Oskaloosa
$80,779/year
-1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Oskaloosa
$64,004/year
3.0% year-over-year change

Oskaloosa income by age

In Oskaloosa, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $66,968. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $79,643 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $30,789, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,023 in earnings. Overall, 83.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $30,789 N/A
25 - 44 $66,968 -14.5%
45 - 64 $79,643 4.4%
Over 65 $50,023 8.5%
Above poverty level
8,848
Below poverty level
1,781
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 8,848 83.2% -1.4%
Below poverty level 1,781 16.8% 2.7%

Average renter income in Oskaloosa

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Oskaloosa, their median household income was $42,846 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 23.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$42,846
Rent-to-income ratio
23.3%
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 Oskaloosa

Workforce and job types in Oskaloosa

The job market in Oskaloosa is powered by 5,647 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 66.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 33.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10% run their own businesses, 67.7% are employed by private companies, and 11.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,647
-3.7% year-over-year change
White collar
3,765
Blue collar
1,882
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,765 66.7% -8.0%
Blue collar 1,882 33.3% 6.4%
Employer type
Self employees
10%
Private companies
67.7%
Governmental workers
11.8%
Not for profit companies
10.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 567 10% 4.0%
Private companies 3,824 67.7% -5.2%
Governmental workers 668 11.8% 2.3%
Not for profit companies 588 10.4% -6.8%
Unemployment rate
4.8%
11.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Oskaloosa stands at 4.8%, 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 Oskaloosa

How people get around in Oskaloosa

Commuting methods vary: 88.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.2% 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 4,958 88.8% -4.5%
Bus or trolleybus 5 0.1% 150.0%
Motorcycle 9 0.2% -25.0%
Walk 232 4.2% -13.4%
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 Oskaloosa by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
52577 14,585 5,737 $66,084 $84,226

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FAQs about Oskaloosa demographics 

What is the total population of Oskaloosa?

Oskaloosa has a total population of 11,504 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 Oskaloosa?

The gender ratio in Oskaloosa is as follows:
  • 49.5% males (5,693 residents)
  • 50.5% females (5,811 residents)

What is the median age in Oskaloosa?

The median age in Oskaloosa is 37.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Oskaloosa?

The age distribution in Oskaloosa is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.6% (2,135 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.3% (1,759 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.8% (2,853 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21% (2,410 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.4% (2,347 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Oskaloosa?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Oskaloosa is as follows:
  • White: 89.9% (10,338 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.1% (241 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (17 residents)
  • Asian: 1.6% (189 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.6% (63 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.6% (529 residents)
  • Other: 1.1% (127 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.2% of the population in Oskaloosa.

How many housing units are there in Oskaloosa?

There are 5,162 housing units in Oskaloosa, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Oskaloosa has a total of 4,590 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Oskaloosa?

Oskaloosa has a median household income of $64,004, representing a +3.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.2% in Oskaloosa, with a workforce of 5,647 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 66.7% (3,765 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 33.3% (1,882 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10% (567 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.7% (3,824 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.8% (668 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.4% (588 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