Pocahontas County, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
7,046
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$61,875/yr
-2.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,651
-0.2% year-over-year change

Pocahontas County population

How many people live in Pocahontas County

Pocahontas County is home to 7,046 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50% of Pocahontas County locals are male, and 50% are female.

Total population
7,046
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50%
3,524
Female
50%
3,522
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,524 50% 0.4%
Female 3,522 50% -0.2%
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 Pocahontas County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.9% are children under 15, then 11.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20% of the population, while another 25.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.9%
15 to 24
11.9%
25 to 44
20%
45 to 64
25.4%
Over 65
23.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,333 18.9% 2.3%
15 to 24 836 11.9% -2.6%
25 to 44 1,407 20% 0.4%
45 to 64 1,788 25.4% -2.2%
Over 65 1,682 23.9% 1.9%
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 Pocahontas County, 96% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 89.8% of locals are Caucasian, 1.3% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.8% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.1%
Non-citizens
1.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 6,765 96% -0.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 146 2.1% 15.0%
Non-citizens 135 1.9% -8.2%
Racial breakdown
White
89.8%
Black or African American
1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.8%
Two or more races
5.4%
Other
2.4%
Value Percent
White 6,327 89.8%
Black or African American 91 1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 17 0.2%
Asian 12 0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 55 0.8%
Two or more races 377 5.4%
Other 167 2.4%

Households in Pocahontas County

A peek inside Pocahontas County households

Pocahontas County has 3,000 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.4% are families, while the remaining 42.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,000
-2.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,277
Family households
1,723
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,277 42.6% 0.1%
Family households 1,723 57.4% -4.7%
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 Pocahontas County

The housing landscape of Pocahontas County

Pocahontas County's housing consists of 3,651 units, with 89.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.1% 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 1.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,651
-0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,273 89.6%
1 unit, attached 77 2.1%
2 units 15 0.4%
3 or 4 units 146 4%
5 to 9 units 48 1.3%
10 to 19 units 13 0.4%
20 to 49 units 31 0.8%
Mobile home 47 1.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 1 0%
Homes built since 2020
3
50.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Pocahontas County

In Pocahontas County, the median construction year is 1950. About 41.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,519 41.6% 4.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 297 8.1% -12.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 459 12.6% -1.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 380 10.4% 47.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 495 13.6% -21.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 181 5% -21.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 117 3.2% -15.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 116 3.2% 96.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 84 2.3% 7.7%
Built in 2020 or later 3 0.1% 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.

Pocahontas County occupancy rates

Out of the 3,000 occupied housing units in Pocahontas County, 77.3% are owner-occupied, while 22.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,000
-2.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
682
Owner occupied
2,318
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 682 22.7% 3.3%
Owner occupied 2,318 77.3% -4.4%
Unoccupied housing units
17.8%
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.

Pocahontas County housing costs

Housing costs in Pocahontas County come to a median of $683 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $832.

Median housing costs per month
$683/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 Pocahontas County
$832/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 Pocahontas County

Pocahontas County education at a glance

About 42.3% of the population in Pocahontas County went to high school, while 23.8% pursued college studies. Another 13.6% earned an associate degree and 15.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 77 1.4% -13.5%
High school diploma 2,287 42.3% -3.1%
College diploma 1,285 23.8% 4.1%
Associate degree 732 13.6% -2.8%
Bachelor's degree 814 15.1% 1.2%
Graduate degree 207 3.8% 16.3%
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 Pocahontas County

How much people earn in Pocahontas County

The average annual household income in Pocahontas County was $77,538 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -3.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $61,875, reflecting a -2.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Pocahontas County
$77,538/year
-3.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Pocahontas County
$61,875/year
-2.4% year-over-year change

Pocahontas County income by age

In Pocahontas County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $85,288. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $67,440 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $32,016, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $49,911 in earnings. Overall, 89.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $32,016 7.2%
25 - 44 $85,288 2.5%
45 - 64 $67,440 -12.5%
Over 65 $49,911 -0.7%
Above poverty level
6,082
Below poverty level
709
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,082 89.6% -2.1%
Below poverty level 709 10.4% 19.0%

Employment in Pocahontas County

Workforce and job types in Pocahontas County

The job market in Pocahontas County is powered by 3,256 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 65.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 16.8% run their own businesses, 62% are employed by private companies, and 16.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,256
-2.7% year-over-year change
White collar
2,128
Blue collar
1,128
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,128 65.4% -2.4%
Blue collar 1,128 34.6% -3.3%
Employer type
Self employees
16.8%
Private companies
62%
Governmental workers
16.7%
Not for profit companies
4.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 548 16.8% -1.8%
Private companies 2,019 62% -2.8%
Governmental workers 543 16.7% 1.1%
Not for profit companies 146 4.5% -16.6%
Unemployment rate
5.4%
-4.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Pocahontas County stands at 5.4%, 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 Pocahontas County

How people get around in Pocahontas County

In Pocahontas County, the average commute time is 21 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 91.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
21 min
4.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,917 91.2% -1.8%
Bicycle 13 0.4% 30.0%
Walk 60 1.9% -28.6%
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 Pocahontas County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50510 1,042 449 $76,397 $106,192
50563 2,505 1,101 $71,094 $93,676
50571 273 180 $59,583 $77,388
50573 31 21 $48,542 $48,633
50574 2,132 987 $60,469 $76,848
50575 696 340 $52,717 $65,875
50540 998 351 $73,438 $81,580
50541 1,067 422 $56,364 $78,759
50546 356 142 $64,583 $93,920
50554 1,653 715 $63,802 $78,574

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FAQs about Pocahontas County demographics 

What is the total population of Pocahontas County?

Pocahontas County has a total population of 7,046 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 Pocahontas County?

The gender ratio in Pocahontas County is as follows:
  • 50% males (3,524 residents)
  • 50% females (3,522 residents)

What is the median age in Pocahontas County?

The median age in Pocahontas County is 43.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Pocahontas County?

The age distribution in Pocahontas County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.9% (1,333 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.9% (836 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20% (1,407 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.4% (1,788 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.9% (1,682 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Pocahontas County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Pocahontas County is as follows:
  • White: 89.8% (6,327 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.3% (91 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (17 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (12 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.8% (55 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.4% (377 residents)
  • Other: 2.4% (167 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96% of the population in Pocahontas County.

How many housing units are there in Pocahontas County?

There are 3,651 housing units in Pocahontas County, reflecting a -0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Pocahontas County has a total of 3,000 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Pocahontas County?

Pocahontas County has a median household income of $61,875, representing a -2.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.6% in Pocahontas County, with a workforce of 3,256 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65.4% (2,128 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34.6% (1,128 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 16.8% (548 residents)
  • Private companies: 62% (2,019 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.7% (543 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.5% (146 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