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

Total population
4,059
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$76,250/yr
13.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,466
-8.9% year-over-year change

Rock Valley population

How many people live in Rock Valley

Rock Valley is home to 4,059 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of Rock Valley locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
4,059
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
2,024
Female
50.1%
2,035
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,024 49.9% 4.0%
Female 2,035 50.1% -3.8%
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 Valley is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 25.7% are children under 15, then 16.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.1% of the population, while another 17.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
25.7%
15 to 24
16.8%
25 to 44
21.1%
45 to 64
17.4%
Over 65
19.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,042 25.7% 7.0%
15 to 24 682 16.8% 11.3%
25 to 44 855 21.1% -15.5%
45 to 64 705 17.4% 13.7%
Over 65 775 19.1% -8.0%
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 Valley, 81.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 17.9% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 19.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
81.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.7%
Non-citizens
17.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,305 81.4% -8.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 27 0.7% -32.5%
Non-citizens 727 17.9% 70.7%
Racial breakdown
White
64.3%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
19.9%
Other
15.2%
Value Percent
White 2,609 64.3%
Asian 22 0.5%
Two or more races 809 19.9%
Other 619 15.2%

Households in Rock Valley

A peek inside Rock Valley households

Rock Valley has 1,452 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 68.1% are families, while the remaining 31.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,452
-9.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
463
Family households
989
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 463 31.9% -14.7%
Family households 989 68.1% -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 Valley

The housing landscape of Rock Valley

Rock Valley's housing consists of 1,466 units, with 66.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.5% 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 3.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,466
-8.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 978 66.7%
1 unit, attached 36 2.5%
3 or 4 units 85 5.8%
5 to 9 units 106 7.2%
10 to 19 units 85 5.8%
20 to 49 units 112 7.6%
50 or more units 14 1%
Mobile home 50 3.4%
Homes built since 2020
40
17.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Rock Valley

In Rock Valley, the median construction year is 1983. About 11.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 13.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 170 11.6% 13.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 33 2.2% -8.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 102 7% -54.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 270 18.4% -18.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 132 9% 10.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 83 5.7% -3.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 239 16.3% -25.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 199 13.6% 29.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 198 13.5% 27.7%
Built in 2020 or later 40 2.7% 17.6%
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 Valley occupancy rates

Out of the 1,452 occupied housing units in Rock Valley, 51.1% are owner-occupied, while 48.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,452
-9.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
710
Owner occupied
742
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 710 48.9% 19.1%
Owner occupied 742 51.1% -25.7%
Unoccupied housing units
1.0%
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.

Rock Valley housing costs

Housing costs in Rock Valley come to a median of $1,063 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,142.

Median housing costs per month
$1,063/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 Valley
$1,142/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 Valley

Rock Valley education at a glance

About 47.2% of the population in Rock Valley went to high school, while 15.8% pursued college studies. Another 7.6% earned an associate degree and 17.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 2.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 284 9.8% 70.1%
High school diploma 1,365 47.2% 5.2%
College diploma 458 15.8% -6.3%
Associate degree 219 7.6% -26.8%
Bachelor's degree 499 17.3% -18.6%
Graduate degree 66 2.3% -50.8%
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 Rock Valley

How much people earn in Rock Valley

The average annual household income in Rock Valley was $88,860 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -2.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $76,250, reflecting a +13.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Rock Valley
$88,860/year
-2.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Rock Valley
$76,250/year
13.8% year-over-year change

Rock Valley income by age

In Rock Valley, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $110,643. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $79,789 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $23,497, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $42,083 in earnings. Overall, 91% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $23,497 0.8%
25 - 44 $110,643 31.6%
45 - 64 $79,789 -38.0%
Over 65 $42,083 -12.1%
Above poverty level
3,608
Below poverty level
355
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,608 91% -3.6%
Below poverty level 355 9% 44.3%

Employment in Rock Valley

Workforce and job types in Rock Valley

The job market in Rock Valley is powered by 2,100 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 66.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 33.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.2% run their own businesses, 68.5% are employed by private companies, and 11.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,100
-7.0% year-over-year change
White collar
1,401
Blue collar
699
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,401 66.7% -4.6%
Blue collar 699 33.3% -11.5%
Employer type
Self employees
9.2%
Private companies
68.5%
Governmental workers
11.5%
Not for profit companies
10.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 194 9.2% -55.1%
Private companies 1,439 68.5% 15.2%
Governmental workers 241 11.5% -2.8%
Not for profit companies 226 10.8% -31.3%
Unemployment rate
0.4%
0.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Rock Valley stands at 0.4%, 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 Rock Valley

How people get around in Rock Valley

Commuting methods vary: 86.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.7% 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 1,814 86.4% -3.5%
Bus or trolleybus 19 0.9% -13.6%
Bicycle 71 3.4% -15.5%
Walk 36 1.7% -53.2%
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 Valley by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
51247 5,094 1,825 $78,358 $99,084

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FAQs about Rock Valley demographics 

What is the total population of Rock Valley?

Rock Valley has a total population of 4,059 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 Rock Valley?

The gender ratio in Rock Valley is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (2,024 residents)
  • 50.1% females (2,035 residents)

What is the median age in Rock Valley?

The median age in Rock Valley is 35.1.

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

The age distribution in Rock Valley is as follows:
  • Under 15: 25.7% (1,042 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.8% (682 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.1% (855 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 17.4% (705 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.1% (775 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Rock Valley?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Rock Valley is as follows:
  • White: 64.3% (2,609 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (22 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 19.9% (809 residents)
  • Other: 15.2% (619 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 81.4% of the population in Rock Valley.

How many housing units are there in Rock Valley?

There are 1,466 housing units in Rock Valley, reflecting a -8.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Rock Valley has a total of 1,452 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Rock Valley?

Rock Valley has a median household income of $76,250, representing a +13.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 99.6% in Rock Valley, with a workforce of 2,100 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 66.7% (1,401 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 33.3% (699 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.2% (194 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.5% (1,439 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.5% (241 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.8% (226 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