Ossian, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
806
-3.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$71,875/yr
22.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
388
-6.7% year-over-year change

Ossian population

How many people live in Ossian

Ossian is home to 806 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 55.2% of Ossian locals are male, and 44.8% are female.

Total population
806
-3.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
55.2%
445
Female
44.8%
361
Value Percent YoY change
Male 445 55.2% -4.1%
Female 361 44.8% -2.2%
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 Ossian is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.5% are children under 15, then 10.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.1% of the population, while another 23.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 24.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.5%
15 to 24
10.9%
25 to 44
23.1%
45 to 64
23.3%
Over 65
24.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 149 18.5% -11.3%
15 to 24 88 10.9% 25.7%
25 to 44 186 23.1% -17.3%
45 to 64 188 23.3% -0.5%
Over 65 195 24.2% 7.7%
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

At the same time, 3.6% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 5.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0%
Non-citizens
3.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 777 96.4% 1.6%
Non-citizens 29 3.6% -57.4%
Racial breakdown
White
94.9%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.1%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 765 94.9%
Two or more races 41 5.1%

Households in Ossian

A peek inside Ossian households

Ossian has 357 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64.7% are families, while the remaining 35.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
357
-8.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
126
Family households
231
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 126 35.3% -14.3%
Family households 231 64.7% -5.7%
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 Ossian

The housing landscape of Ossian

Ossian's housing consists of 388 units, with 94.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 0.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
388
-6.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 368 94.8%
3 or 4 units 16 4.1%
5 to 9 units 2 0.5%
Mobile home 2 0.5%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Ossian

In Ossian, the median construction year is 1938. About 52.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 202 52.1% -11.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 9 2.3% -57.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 27 7% -25.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 16 4.1% 45.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 90 23.2% 28.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 16 4.1% 14.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 8 2.1% -11.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 15 3.9% -16.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 5 1.3% -50.0%
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.

Ossian occupancy rates

Out of the 357 occupied housing units in Ossian, 80.1% are owner-occupied, while 19.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
357
-8.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
71
Owner occupied
286
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 71 19.9% -16.5%
Owner occupied 286 80.1% -6.8%
Unoccupied housing units
8.0%
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.

Ossian housing costs

Housing costs in Ossian come to a median of $794 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $772.

Median housing costs per month
$794/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 Ossian
$772/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 Ossian

Ossian education at a glance

About 40.2% of the population in Ossian went to high school, while 21.8% pursued college studies. Another 18% earned an associate degree and 8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 34 5.2% -40.4%
High school diploma 262 40.2% 7.4%
College diploma 142 21.8% -4.0%
Associate degree 117 18% 12.5%
Bachelor's degree 52 8% -10.3%
Graduate degree 44 6.8% -10.2%
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 Ossian

How much people earn in Ossian

The average annual household income in Ossian was $84,600 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +11% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $71,875, reflecting a +22% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Ossian
$84,600/year
11.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Ossian
$71,875/year
22.0% year-over-year change

Ossian income by age

In Ossian, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $99,375. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $87,750 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $93,906, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,625 in earnings. Overall, 90.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $93,906 62.4%
25 - 44 $99,375 44.5%
45 - 64 $87,750 4.0%
Over 65 $50,625 10.5%
Above poverty level
690
Below poverty level
69
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 690 90.9% -3.5%
Below poverty level 69 9.1% -4.2%

Average renter income in Ossian

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Ossian, their median household income was $38,750 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 23.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$38,750
Rent-to-income ratio
23.9%
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 Ossian

Workforce and job types in Ossian

The job market in Ossian is powered by 436 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 61.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 38.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.8% run their own businesses, 65.8% are employed by private companies, and 14.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
436
-5.2% year-over-year change
White collar
270
Blue collar
166
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 270 61.9% 5.5%
Blue collar 166 38.1% -18.6%
Employer type
Self employees
13.8%
Private companies
65.8%
Governmental workers
14.2%
Not for profit companies
6.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 60 13.8% -1.6%
Private companies 287 65.8% 2.5%
Governmental workers 62 14.2% -1.6%
Not for profit companies 27 6.2% -51.8%
Unemployment rate
4.8%
37.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Ossian 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 Ossian

How people get around in Ossian

Commuting methods vary: 86.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.1% 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 357 86.6% -3.8%
Walk 17 4.1% -48.5%
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 Ossian by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
52161 1,532 564 $87,870 $96,471

Explore more communities

FAQs about Ossian demographics 

What is the total population of Ossian?

Ossian has a total population of 806 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 -3.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Ossian?

The gender ratio in Ossian is as follows:
  • 55.2% males (445 residents)
  • 44.8% females (361 residents)

What is the median age in Ossian?

The median age in Ossian is 42.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Ossian?

The age distribution in Ossian is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.5% (149 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.9% (88 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.1% (186 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.3% (188 residents)
  • Over 65: 24.2% (195 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Ossian?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Ossian is as follows:
  • White: 94.9% (765 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.1% (41 residents)
  • Other: 0% (0 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.4% of the population in Ossian.

How many housing units are there in Ossian?

There are 388 housing units in Ossian, reflecting a -6.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Ossian has a total of 357 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Ossian?

Ossian has a median household income of $71,875, representing a +22.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.2% in Ossian, with a workforce of 436 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 61.9% (270 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 38.1% (166 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.8% (60 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.8% (287 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.2% (62 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.2% (27 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