Palo Alto County, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
8,863
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$72,781/yr
5.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,535
0.4% year-over-year change

Palo Alto County population

How many people live in Palo Alto County

Palo Alto County is home to 8,863 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.6% of Palo Alto County locals are male, and 49.4% are female.

Total population
8,863
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.6%
4,486
Female
49.4%
4,377
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,486 50.6% 0.4%
Female 4,377 49.4% -1.3%
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 Palo Alto County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.4% are children under 15, then 13.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.5% of the population, while another 23.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.4%
15 to 24
13.4%
25 to 44
22.5%
45 to 64
23.6%
Over 65
22.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,626 18.4% -2.5%
15 to 24 1,188 13.4% 2.8%
25 to 44 1,992 22.5% -0.1%
45 to 64 2,087 23.6% -2.2%
Over 65 1,970 22.2% 1.1%
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 Palo Alto County, 96.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91.6% of locals are Caucasian, 1.6% are African American and 0.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.1%
Non-citizens
1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 8,586 96.9% -0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 187 2.1% 15.4%
Non-citizens 90 1% 5.9%
Racial breakdown
White
91.6%
Black or African American
1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.5%
Other
1.4%
Value Percent
White 8,117 91.6%
Black or African American 145 1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 21 0.2%
Asian 57 0.6%
Two or more races 399 4.5%
Other 124 1.4%

Households in Palo Alto County

A peek inside Palo Alto County households

Palo Alto County has 3,782 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.5% are families, while the remaining 42.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,782
1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,609
Family households
2,173
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,609 42.5% 3.1%
Family households 2,173 57.5% -0.2%
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 Palo Alto County

The housing landscape of Palo Alto County

Palo Alto County's housing consists of 4,535 units, with 85% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.1% 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 1.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,535
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,853 85%
1 unit, attached 49 1.1%
2 units 20 0.4%
3 or 4 units 216 4.8%
5 to 9 units 100 2.2%
10 to 19 units 116 2.6%
20 to 49 units 64 1.4%
50 or more units 31 0.7%
Mobile home 86 1.9%
Homes built since 2020
31
40.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Palo Alto County

In Palo Alto County, the median construction year is 1958. About 33.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,507 33.2% -6.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 247 5.4% -3.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 656 14.5% 21.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 329 7.2% -31.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 718 15.8% 7.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 366 8.1% 31.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 287 6.3% -5.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 251 5.5% 7.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 143 3.2% 8.3%
Built in 2020 or later 31 0.7% 40.9%
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.

Palo Alto County occupancy rates

Out of the 3,782 occupied housing units in Palo Alto County, 77.1% are owner-occupied, while 22.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 16.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,782
1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
867
Owner occupied
2,915
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 867 22.9% -4.5%
Owner occupied 2,915 77.1% 3.0%
Unoccupied housing units
16.6%
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.

Palo Alto County housing costs

Housing costs in Palo Alto County come to a median of $718 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $638.

Median housing costs per month
$718/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 Palo Alto County
$638/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 Palo Alto County

Palo Alto County education at a glance

About 36.7% of the population in Palo Alto County went to high school, while 28.5% pursued college studies. Another 15.2% earned an associate degree and 13.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 166 2.4% 7.8%
High school diploma 2,501 36.7% 0.2%
College diploma 1,945 28.5% 4.2%
Associate degree 1,036 15.2% 0.4%
Bachelor's degree 898 13.2% -6.4%
Graduate degree 273 4% -10.8%
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 Palo Alto County

How much people earn in Palo Alto County

The average annual household income in Palo Alto County was $89,684 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $72,781, reflecting a +5.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Palo Alto County
$89,684/year
6.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Palo Alto County
$72,781/year
5.5% year-over-year change

Palo Alto County income by age

In Palo Alto County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $90,652. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $89,634 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $50,000, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $53,365 in earnings. Overall, 88.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $50,000 18.0%
25 - 44 $90,652 0.5%
45 - 64 $89,634 5.2%
Over 65 $53,365 17.6%
Above poverty level
7,443
Below poverty level
964
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,443 88.5% -0.3%
Below poverty level 964 11.5% -0.6%

Employment in Palo Alto County

Workforce and job types in Palo Alto County

The job market in Palo Alto County is powered by 4,658 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 65.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.8% run their own businesses, 66% are employed by private companies, and 11.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,658
0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
3,059
Blue collar
1,599
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,059 65.7% -0.9%
Blue collar 1,599 34.3% 3.3%
Employer type
Self employees
13.8%
Private companies
66%
Governmental workers
11.1%
Not for profit companies
9.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 642 13.8% 9.2%
Private companies 3,072 66% -0.2%
Governmental workers 515 11.1% -2.8%
Not for profit companies 429 9.2% -2.5%
Unemployment rate
2.2%
-19.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Palo Alto County stands at 2.2%, 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 Palo Alto County

How people get around in Palo Alto County

In Palo Alto County, the average commute time is 17 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 87.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
17 min
-2.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 4,011 87.7% 1.0%
Bus or trolleybus 23 0.5% -17.9%
Motorcycle 17 0.4% 13.3%
Bicycle 32 0.7% 0.0%
Walk 231 5% 17.3%
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 Palo Alto County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50515 251 118 $63,333 $88,281
50527 106 54 $0 $147,711
50528 366 134 $116,429 $181,007
50562 377 182 $72,500 $109,036
50578 633 277 $71,645 $90,147
50536 4,207 1,859 $59,261 $77,985
50539 444 206 $65,417 $77,728
50554 1,653 715 $63,802 $78,574
50597 1,341 494 $92,000 $115,510
50598 818 340 $78,558 $88,826

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Palo Alto County demographics 

What is the total population of Palo Alto County?

Palo Alto County has a total population of 8,863 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 Palo Alto County?

The gender ratio in Palo Alto County is as follows:
  • 50.6% males (4,486 residents)
  • 49.4% females (4,377 residents)

What is the median age in Palo Alto County?

The median age in Palo Alto County is 41.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Palo Alto County?

The age distribution in Palo Alto County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.4% (1,626 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.4% (1,188 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.5% (1,992 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.6% (2,087 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.2% (1,970 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Palo Alto County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Palo Alto County is as follows:
  • White: 91.6% (8,117 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.6% (145 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (21 residents)
  • Asian: 0.6% (57 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.5% (399 residents)
  • Other: 1.4% (124 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.9% of the population in Palo Alto County.

How many housing units are there in Palo Alto County?

There are 4,535 housing units in Palo Alto County, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Palo Alto County and what is the average household size?

Palo Alto County has a total of 3,782 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Palo Alto County?

Palo Alto County has a median household income of $72,781, representing a +5.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Palo Alto County?

The employment rate is 97.8% in Palo Alto County, with a workforce of 4,658 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65.7% (3,059 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34.3% (1,599 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.8% (642 residents)
  • Private companies: 66% (3,072 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.1% (515 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.2% (429 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