Ottumwa, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
25,430
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$61,103/yr
7.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
11,395
-1.1% year-over-year change

Ottumwa population

How many people live in Ottumwa

Ottumwa is home to 25,430 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.7% of Ottumwa locals are male, and 49.3% are female.

Total population
25,430
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.7%
12,885
Female
49.3%
12,545
Value Percent YoY change
Male 12,885 50.7% -0.8%
Female 12,545 49.3% 1.5%
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 Ottumwa is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.8% are children under 15, then 14.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.1% of the population, while another 24.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.8%
15 to 24
14.4%
25 to 44
25.1%
45 to 64
24.6%
Over 65
16.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,028 19.8% 4.5%
15 to 24 3,666 14.4% 2.9%
25 to 44 6,385 25.1% 1.4%
45 to 64 6,244 24.6% -4.5%
Over 65 4,107 16.2% -0.7%
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

In Ottumwa, 85.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 8.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 73.4% of locals are Caucasian, 4.1% are African American and 2.5% have Asian roots. Another 0.5% are Indigenous American, 3.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 5.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 10.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
85.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6%
Non-citizens
8.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 21,749 85.5% -1.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,526 6% 3.7%
Non-citizens 2,155 8.5% 19.5%
Racial breakdown
White
73.4%
Black or African American
4.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
2.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
3.4%
Two or more races
10.3%
Other
5.8%
Value Percent
White 18,677 73.4%
Black or African American 1,037 4.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 134 0.5%
Asian 634 2.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 857 3.4%
Two or more races 2,620 10.3%
Other 1,471 5.8%

Households in Ottumwa

A peek inside Ottumwa households

Ottumwa has 9,980 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.8% are families, while the remaining 38.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,980
-2.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,816
Family households
6,164
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,816 38.2% -2.6%
Family households 6,164 61.8% -2.0%
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 Ottumwa

The housing landscape of Ottumwa

Ottumwa's housing consists of 11,395 units, with 72.9% 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 3.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
11,395
-1.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,308 72.9%
1 unit, attached 263 2.3%
2 units 315 2.8%
3 or 4 units 396 3.5%
5 to 9 units 408 3.6%
10 to 19 units 545 4.8%
20 to 49 units 410 3.6%
50 or more units 399 3.5%
Mobile home 351 3.1%
Homes built since 2020
54
285.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Ottumwa

In Ottumwa, the median construction year is 1955. About 29% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 12.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 0.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,306 29% -1.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,408 12.4% -3.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,875 16.4% -11.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,277 11.2% 13.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,223 10.7% -13.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 764 6.7% 9.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 754 6.6% 3.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 638 5.6% 19.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 96 0.8% -2.0%
Built in 2020 or later 54 0.5% 285.7%
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.

Ottumwa occupancy rates

Out of the 9,980 occupied housing units in Ottumwa, 61.7% are owner-occupied, while 38.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,980
-2.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,819
Owner occupied
6,161
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,819 38.3% -3.5%
Owner occupied 6,161 61.7% -1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
12.4%
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.

Ottumwa housing costs

Housing costs in Ottumwa come to a median of $880 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $921.

Median housing costs per month
$880/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 Ottumwa
$921/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 Ottumwa

Ottumwa education at a glance

About 45.4% of the population in Ottumwa went to high school, while 19% pursued college studies. Another 10.2% earned an associate degree and 11.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,348 7% 6.6%
High school diploma 8,707 45.4% -0.3%
College diploma 3,645 19% -7.3%
Associate degree 1,953 10.2% -0.9%
Bachelor's degree 2,121 11.1% 5.5%
Graduate degree 1,387 7.2% -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 Ottumwa

How much people earn in Ottumwa

The average annual household income in Ottumwa was $75,711 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $61,103, reflecting a +7.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Ottumwa
$75,711/year
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Ottumwa
$61,103/year
7.2% year-over-year change

Ottumwa income by age

In Ottumwa, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $63,990. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $71,863 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $53,000, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,778 in earnings. Overall, 82.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $53,000 13.9%
25 - 44 $63,990 3.2%
45 - 64 $71,863 7.1%
Over 65 $46,778 15.7%
Above poverty level
20,061
Below poverty level
4,166
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 20,061 82.8% 2.4%
Below poverty level 4,166 17.2% -8.7%

Average renter income in Ottumwa

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Ottumwa, their median household income was $37,200 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 29.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$37,200
Rent-to-income ratio
29.7%
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 Ottumwa

Workforce and job types in Ottumwa

The job market in Ottumwa is powered by 11,928 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 60.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 39.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.8% run their own businesses, 70.7% are employed by private companies, and 12.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
11,928
-0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
7,243
Blue collar
4,685
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 7,243 60.7% -1.0%
Blue collar 4,685 39.3% -0.6%
Employer type
Self employees
6.8%
Private companies
70.7%
Governmental workers
12.7%
Not for profit companies
9.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 811 6.8% 7.0%
Private companies 8,430 70.7% -0.2%
Governmental workers 1,517 12.7% -6.8%
Not for profit companies 1,170 9.8% -2.2%
Unemployment rate
4.6%
24.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Ottumwa stands at 4.6%, 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 Ottumwa

How people get around in Ottumwa

In Ottumwa, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 91.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% 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
3.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 10,473 91.2% -3.2%
Taxicab 42 0.4% -25.0%
Bus or trolleybus 133 1.2% 125.4%
Bicycle 24 0.2% N/A
Walk 132 1.2% -7.7%
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 Ottumwa by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
52501 30,371 11,976 $63,426 $79,117

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FAQs about Ottumwa demographics 

What is the total population of Ottumwa?

Ottumwa has a total population of 25,430 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 +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Ottumwa?

The gender ratio in Ottumwa is as follows:
  • 50.7% males (12,885 residents)
  • 49.3% females (12,545 residents)

What is the median age in Ottumwa?

The median age in Ottumwa is 36.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Ottumwa?

The age distribution in Ottumwa is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.8% (5,028 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.4% (3,666 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.1% (6,385 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.6% (6,244 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.2% (4,107 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Ottumwa?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Ottumwa is as follows:
  • White: 73.4% (18,677 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.1% (1,037 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (134 residents)
  • Asian: 2.5% (634 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 3.4% (857 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.3% (2,620 residents)
  • Other: 5.8% (1,471 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 85.5% of the population in Ottumwa.

How many housing units are there in Ottumwa?

There are 11,395 housing units in Ottumwa, reflecting a -1.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Ottumwa has a total of 9,980 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Ottumwa?

Ottumwa has a median household income of $61,103, representing a +7.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.4% in Ottumwa, with a workforce of 11,928 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 60.7% (7,243 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 39.3% (4,685 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.8% (811 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.7% (8,430 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.7% (1,517 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.8% (1,170 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