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

Total population
18,545
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$67,391/yr
3.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,975
0.3% year-over-year change

Poweshiek County population

How many people live in Poweshiek County

Poweshiek County is home to 18,545 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.8% of Poweshiek County locals are male, and 51.2% are female.

Total population
18,545
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.8%
9,040
Female
51.2%
9,505
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,040 48.8% -0.1%
Female 9,505 51.2% -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 Poweshiek County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.7% are children under 15, then 18.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.4% of the population, while another 24% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
41
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.7%
15 to 24
18.4%
25 to 44
20.4%
45 to 64
24%
Over 65
21.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,914 15.7% -0.4%
15 to 24 3,413 18.4% -1.7%
25 to 44 3,791 20.4% 0.8%
45 to 64 4,460 24% -1.4%
Over 65 3,967 21.4% 1.7%
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 Poweshiek County, 95.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 90.3% of locals are Caucasian, 1% are African American and 2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.1%
Non-citizens
2.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 17,646 95.2% -0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 388 2.1% 9.3%
Non-citizens 511 2.8% 11.8%
Racial breakdown
White
90.3%
Black or African American
1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.3%
Other
1%
Value Percent
White 16,754 90.3%
Black or African American 193 1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 56 0.3%
Asian 380 2%
Two or more races 977 5.3%
Other 185 1%

Households in Poweshiek County

A peek inside Poweshiek County households

Poweshiek County has 7,804 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.6% are families, while the remaining 40.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,804
0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,151
Family households
4,653
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,151 40.4% -5.5%
Family households 4,653 59.6% 4.4%
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 Poweshiek County

The housing landscape of Poweshiek County

Poweshiek County's housing consists of 8,975 units, with 77.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.7% 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 3.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,975
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,936 77.3%
1 unit, attached 332 3.7%
2 units 164 1.8%
3 or 4 units 362 4%
5 to 9 units 307 3.4%
10 to 19 units 251 2.8%
20 to 49 units 237 2.6%
50 or more units 44 0.5%
Mobile home 342 3.8%
Homes built since 2020
66
40.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Poweshiek County

In Poweshiek County, the median construction year is 1971. About 29.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.6% 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 2,637 29.4% 7.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 282 3.1% -27.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 658 7.3% -12.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 811 9% 0.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,403 15.6% -0.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 781 8.7% -12.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 764 8.5% -0.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 980 10.9% 11.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 593 6.6% 9.6%
Built in 2020 or later 66 0.7% 40.4%
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.

Poweshiek County occupancy rates

Out of the 7,804 occupied housing units in Poweshiek County, 71.2% are owner-occupied, while 28.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,804
0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,247
Owner occupied
5,557
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,247 28.8% -1.6%
Owner occupied 5,557 71.2% 0.9%
Unoccupied housing units
13.0%
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.

Poweshiek County housing costs

Housing costs in Poweshiek County come to a median of $996 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $883.

Median housing costs per month
$996/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 Poweshiek County
$883/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 Poweshiek County

Poweshiek County education at a glance

About 44.5% of the population in Poweshiek County went to high school, while 21.4% pursued college studies. Another 9.2% earned an associate degree and 14.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 205 1.4% -17.7%
High school diploma 6,655 44.5% 4.7%
College diploma 3,195 21.4% -9.7%
Associate degree 1,378 9.2% 10.2%
Bachelor's degree 2,138 14.3% -0.6%
Graduate degree 1,381 9.2% -2.8%
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 Poweshiek County

How much people earn in Poweshiek County

The average annual household income in Poweshiek County was $90,285 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $67,391, reflecting a +3.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Poweshiek County
$90,285/year
4.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Poweshiek County
$67,391/year
3.9% year-over-year change

Poweshiek County income by age

In Poweshiek County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $81,667. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $81,500 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $44,333, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $52,451 in earnings. Overall, 89.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $44,333 8.1%
25 - 44 $81,667 -7.3%
45 - 64 $81,500 15.7%
Over 65 $52,451 13.0%
Above poverty level
14,984
Below poverty level
1,776
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 14,984 89.4% -0.1%
Below poverty level 1,776 10.6% -3.8%

Employment in Poweshiek County

Workforce and job types in Poweshiek County

The job market in Poweshiek County is powered by 9,284 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15% run their own businesses, 57.7% are employed by private companies, and 10.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,284
2.7% year-over-year change
White collar
6,790
Blue collar
2,494
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,790 73.1% 6.2%
Blue collar 2,494 26.9% -5.7%
Employer type
Self employees
15%
Private companies
57.7%
Governmental workers
10.5%
Not for profit companies
16.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,396 15% 19.2%
Private companies 5,357 57.7% 1.6%
Governmental workers 972 10.5% -15.3%
Not for profit companies 1,559 16.8% 7.8%
Unemployment rate
3.6%
-24.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Poweshiek County 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 Poweshiek County

How people get around in Poweshiek County

In Poweshiek County, the average commute time is 19 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 72.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 11.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
19 min
-3.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,635 72.7% -1.5%
Bicycle 172 1.9% -9.0%
Walk 1,028 11.3% 8.4%
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 Poweshiek County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50112 11,862 4,671 $67,078 $96,506
50157 473 210 $115,000 $136,126
50171 2,524 1,230 $65,000 $79,778
50242 326 147 $67,104 $77,162
52347 1,386 527 $78,482 $86,034
52211 2,795 1,225 $73,922 $76,391
52215 960 367 $61,932 $82,693
52221 332 137 $86,473 $102,464
52222 631 285 $81,964 $103,931
52232 277 101 $99,391 $101,304

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FAQs about Poweshiek County demographics 

What is the total population of Poweshiek County?

Poweshiek County has a total population of 18,545 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Poweshiek County?

The gender ratio in Poweshiek County is as follows:
  • 48.8% males (9,040 residents)
  • 51.2% females (9,505 residents)

What is the median age in Poweshiek County?

The median age in Poweshiek County is 41.

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

The age distribution in Poweshiek County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.7% (2,914 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 18.4% (3,413 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.4% (3,791 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24% (4,460 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.4% (3,967 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Poweshiek County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Poweshiek County is as follows:
  • White: 90.3% (16,754 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1% (193 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (56 residents)
  • Asian: 2% (380 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.3% (977 residents)
  • Other: 1% (185 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.2% of the population in Poweshiek County.

How many housing units are there in Poweshiek County?

There are 8,975 housing units in Poweshiek County, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Poweshiek County has a total of 7,804 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Poweshiek County?

Poweshiek County has a median household income of $67,391, representing a +3.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.4% in Poweshiek County, with a workforce of 9,284 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.1% (6,790 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.9% (2,494 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15% (1,396 residents)
  • Private companies: 57.7% (5,357 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.5% (972 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 16.8% (1,559 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