Rock Rapids, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
2,661
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$63,942/yr
3.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,136
-2.1% year-over-year change

Rock Rapids population

How many people live in Rock Rapids

Rock Rapids is home to 2,661 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.6% of Rock Rapids locals are male, and 48.4% are female.

Total population
2,661
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.6%
1,373
Female
48.4%
1,288
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,373 51.6% -2.9%
Female 1,288 48.4% 4.0%
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 Rock Rapids is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 22.7% are children under 15, then 11.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.4% of the population, while another 21.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
41
Age breakdown
Under 15
22.7%
15 to 24
11.8%
25 to 44
23.4%
45 to 64
21.6%
Over 65
20.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 604 22.7% 4.0%
15 to 24 313 11.8% 1.6%
25 to 44 624 23.4% 3.5%
45 to 64 576 21.6% -9.7%
Over 65 544 20.4% 4.0%
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 Rock Rapids, 95.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 88.2% of locals are Caucasian, 0.4% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. Another 0.5% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.9% 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
95.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.1%
Non-citizens
3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,551 95.9% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 30 1.1% 11.1%
Non-citizens 80 3% 27.0%
Racial breakdown
White
88.2%
Black or African American
0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
9.6%
Other
0.9%
Value Percent
White 2,346 88.2%
Black or African American 12 0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 13 0.5%
Asian 9 0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 4 0.2%
Two or more races 254 9.6%
Other 23 0.9%

Households in Rock Rapids

A peek inside Rock Rapids households

Rock Rapids has 975 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 65.6% are families, while the remaining 34.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
975
-4.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
335
Family households
640
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 335 34.4% -0.3%
Family households 640 65.6% -6.0%
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 Rock Rapids

The housing landscape of Rock Rapids

Rock Rapids's housing consists of 1,136 units, with 72% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.5% 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 0.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,136
-2.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 818 72%
1 unit, attached 51 4.5%
2 units 52 4.6%
3 or 4 units 9 0.8%
5 to 9 units 35 3.1%
10 to 19 units 29 2.6%
20 to 49 units 38 3.4%
50 or more units 95 8.4%
Mobile home 9 0.8%
Homes built since 2020
20
33.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Rock Rapids

In Rock Rapids, the median construction year is 1971. About 17.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8.8% 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, 6.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 201 17.7% 14.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 100 8.8% 72.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 117 10.3% -22.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 134 11.8% -30.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 243 21.4% -3.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 50 4.4% -20.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 130 11.4% 26.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 63 5.6% 0.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 78 6.9% -9.3%
Built in 2020 or later 20 1.8% 33.3%
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.

Rock Rapids occupancy rates

Out of the 975 occupied housing units in Rock Rapids, 71.3% are owner-occupied, while 28.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
975
-4.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
280
Owner occupied
695
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 280 28.7% 14.3%
Owner occupied 695 71.3% -10.0%
Unoccupied housing units
14.2%
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.

Rock Rapids housing costs

Housing costs in Rock Rapids come to a median of $880 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $812.

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 Rock Rapids
$812/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 Rock Rapids

Rock Rapids education at a glance

About 46.4% of the population in Rock Rapids went to high school, while 21% pursued college studies. Another 10.8% earned an associate degree and 16.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 39 2% 5.4%
High school diploma 890 46.4% -4.7%
College diploma 402 21% 21.8%
Associate degree 207 10.8% -15.8%
Bachelor's degree 316 16.5% 1.9%
Graduate degree 63 3.3% 3.3%
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 Rock Rapids

How much people earn in Rock Rapids

The average annual household income in Rock Rapids was $78,708 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $63,942, reflecting a +3.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Rock Rapids
$78,708/year
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Rock Rapids
$63,942/year
3.7% year-over-year change

Rock Rapids income by age

In Rock Rapids, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $76,806. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $97,917 overall. Overall, 93.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $76,806 -10.3%
45 - 64 $97,917 10.7%
Over 65 $47,019 7.2%
Above poverty level
2,385
Below poverty level
167
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,385 93.5% -0.5%
Below poverty level 167 6.5% 11.3%

Average renter income in Rock Rapids

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Rock Rapids, their median household income was $49,821 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 19.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$49,821
Rent-to-income ratio
19.6%
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 Rock Rapids

Workforce and job types in Rock Rapids

The job market in Rock Rapids is powered by 1,194 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15.3% run their own businesses, 53.4% are employed by private companies, and 19.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,194
-3.4% year-over-year change
White collar
830
Blue collar
364
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 830 69.5% -6.3%
Blue collar 364 30.5% 4.0%
Employer type
Self employees
15.3%
Private companies
53.4%
Governmental workers
19.2%
Not for profit companies
12.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 183 15.3% -3.2%
Private companies 638 53.4% 2.9%
Governmental workers 229 19.2% -14.6%
Not for profit companies 144 12.1% -9.4%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
2.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Rock Rapids stands at 3.8%, 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 Rock Rapids

How people get around in Rock Rapids

Commuting methods vary: 78.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 6.7% 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 929 78.2% -8.8%
Motorcycle 8 0.7% -11.1%
Bicycle 28 2.4% 211.1%
Walk 80 6.7% 33.3%
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 Rock Rapids by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
51246 4,041 1,330 $72,400 $90,051

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FAQs about Rock Rapids demographics 

What is the total population of Rock Rapids?

Rock Rapids has a total population of 2,661 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 Rock Rapids?

The gender ratio in Rock Rapids is as follows:
  • 51.6% males (1,373 residents)
  • 48.4% females (1,288 residents)

What is the median age in Rock Rapids?

The median age in Rock Rapids is 41.

What is the age distribution of the population in Rock Rapids?

The age distribution in Rock Rapids is as follows:
  • Under 15: 22.7% (604 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.8% (313 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.4% (624 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.6% (576 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.4% (544 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Rock Rapids?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Rock Rapids is as follows:
  • White: 88.2% (2,346 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.4% (12 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (13 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (9 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (4 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.6% (254 residents)
  • Other: 0.9% (23 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.9% of the population in Rock Rapids.

How many housing units are there in Rock Rapids?

There are 1,136 housing units in Rock Rapids, 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 Rock Rapids and what is the average household size?

Rock Rapids has a total of 975 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Rock Rapids?

Rock Rapids has a median household income of $63,942, representing a +3.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Rock Rapids?

The employment rate is 96.2% in Rock Rapids, with a workforce of 1,194 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.5% (830 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.5% (364 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15.3% (183 residents)
  • Private companies: 53.4% (638 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.2% (229 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.1% (144 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