Perry, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
7,985
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$68,910/yr
7.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,486
2.1% year-over-year change

Perry population

How many people live in Perry

Perry is home to 7,985 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.4% of Perry locals are male, and 51.6% are female.

Total population
7,985
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.4%
3,862
Female
51.6%
4,123
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,862 48.4% 1.2%
Female 4,123 51.6% 0.3%
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 Perry is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.1% are children under 15, then 13.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.4% of the population, while another 23% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15% are 65 or older.

Median age
39
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.1%
15 to 24
13.5%
25 to 44
28.4%
45 to 64
23%
Over 65
15%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,604 20.1% 3.8%
15 to 24 1,081 13.5% 2.6%
25 to 44 2,264 28.4% 0.2%
45 to 64 1,836 23% 6.2%
Over 65 1,200 15% -10.4%
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 Perry, 78.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 12.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 77.1% of locals are Caucasian, 0.7% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. Another 1.6% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 10.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 9.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
78.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.6%
Non-citizens
12.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 6,300 78.9% -2.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 683 8.6% 30.3%
Non-citizens 1,002 12.6% 8.7%
Racial breakdown
White
77.1%
Black or African American
0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.6%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
9.6%
Other
10.5%
Value Percent
White 6,157 77.1%
Black or African American 56 0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 126 1.6%
Asian 34 0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 5 0.1%
Two or more races 768 9.6%
Other 839 10.5%

Households in Perry

A peek inside Perry households

Perry has 3,163 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.9% are families, while the remaining 44.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,163
1.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,395
Family households
1,768
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,395 44.1% 7.6%
Family households 1,768 55.9% -2.3%
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 Perry

The housing landscape of Perry

Perry's housing consists of 3,486 units, with 71.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.1% 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 3.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,486
2.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,500 71.7%
1 unit, attached 109 3.1%
2 units 109 3.1%
3 or 4 units 219 6.3%
5 to 9 units 193 5.5%
10 to 19 units 71 2%
20 to 49 units 149 4.3%
Mobile home 136 3.9%
Homes built since 2020
20
-13.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Perry

In Perry, the median construction year is 1961. About 33.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,167 33.5% -3.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 236 6.8% -7.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 315 9% -13.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 408 11.7% 17.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 397 11.4% -19.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 212 6.1% 94.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 167 4.8% 12.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 322 9.2% 37.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 242 6.9% 3.4%
Built in 2020 or later 20 0.6% -13.0%
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.

Perry occupancy rates

Out of the 3,163 occupied housing units in Perry, 64.2% are owner-occupied, while 35.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,163
1.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,132
Owner occupied
2,031
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,132 35.8% -3.6%
Owner occupied 2,031 64.2% 5.1%
Unoccupied housing units
9.3%
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.

Perry housing costs

Housing costs in Perry come to a median of $845 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $931.

Median housing costs per month
$845/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 Perry
$931/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 Perry

Perry education at a glance

About 45.7% of the population in Perry went to high school, while 22.9% pursued college studies. Another 9.3% earned an associate degree and 10.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 396 6.5% -17.0%
High school diploma 2,778 45.7% 1.9%
College diploma 1,394 22.9% -5.5%
Associate degree 567 9.3% -0.2%
Bachelor's degree 635 10.4% 11.4%
Graduate degree 307 5% 32.9%
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 Perry

How much people earn in Perry

The average annual household income in Perry was $81,935 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +12.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $68,910, reflecting a +7.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Perry
$81,935/year
12.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Perry
$68,910/year
7.7% year-over-year change

Perry income by age

In Perry, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $76,381. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $75,524 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $44,750, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $43,079 in earnings. Overall, 91.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $44,750 -19.5%
25 - 44 $76,381 2.9%
45 - 64 $75,524 26.8%
Over 65 $43,079 -24.0%
Above poverty level
6,976
Below poverty level
645
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,976 91.5% 2.8%
Below poverty level 645 8.5% -21.0%

Average renter income in Perry

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Perry, their median household income was $37,178 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 30.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$37,178
Rent-to-income ratio
30.1%
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 Perry

Workforce and job types in Perry

The job market in Perry is powered by 4,472 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 58.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 41.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.2% run their own businesses, 67.6% are employed by private companies, and 15.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,472
8.4% year-over-year change
White collar
2,634
Blue collar
1,838
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,634 58.9% 9.3%
Blue collar 1,838 41.1% 7.0%
Employer type
Self employees
9.2%
Private companies
67.6%
Governmental workers
15.2%
Not for profit companies
8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 412 9.2% 9.9%
Private companies 3,024 67.6% 12.4%
Governmental workers 680 15.2% -3.4%
Not for profit companies 356 8% -0.3%
Unemployment rate
3.6%
-51.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Perry stands at 3.6%, 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 Perry

How people get around in Perry

Commuting methods vary: 85% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.2% 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 3,691 85% 5.7%
Bus or trolleybus 6 0.1% 20.0%
Motorcycle 9 0.2% 12.5%
Walk 97 2.2% 12.8%
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 Perry by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50220 9,216 3,661 $71,671 $89,667

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FAQs about Perry demographics 

What is the total population of Perry?

Perry has a total population of 7,985 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 +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Perry?

The gender ratio in Perry is as follows:
  • 48.4% males (3,862 residents)
  • 51.6% females (4,123 residents)

What is the median age in Perry?

The median age in Perry is 39.

What is the age distribution of the population in Perry?

The age distribution in Perry is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.1% (1,604 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.5% (1,081 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.4% (2,264 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23% (1,836 residents)
  • Over 65: 15% (1,200 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Perry?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Perry is as follows:
  • White: 77.1% (6,157 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.7% (56 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.6% (126 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (34 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (5 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.6% (768 residents)
  • Other: 10.5% (839 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 78.9% of the population in Perry.

How many housing units are there in Perry?

There are 3,486 housing units in Perry, reflecting a +2.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Perry has a total of 3,163 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Perry?

Perry has a median household income of $68,910, representing a +7.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.4% in Perry, with a workforce of 4,472 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 58.9% (2,634 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 41.1% (1,838 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.2% (412 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.6% (3,024 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.2% (680 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8% (356 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