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

Total population
11,778
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$72,738/yr
7.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,441
0.2% year-over-year change

Shelby County population

How many people live in Shelby County

Shelby County is home to 11,778 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.5% of Shelby County locals are male, and 50.5% are female.

Total population
11,778
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.5%
5,830
Female
50.5%
5,948
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,830 49.5% 0.1%
Female 5,948 50.5% 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 Shelby County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.2% are children under 15, then 12.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.2% of the population, while another 26.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.2%
15 to 24
12.3%
25 to 44
20.2%
45 to 64
26.2%
Over 65
23.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,139 18.2% -0.6%
15 to 24 1,453 12.3% 7.5%
25 to 44 2,381 20.2% 0.6%
45 to 64 3,081 26.2% -2.5%
Over 65 2,724 23.1% -0.1%
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 Shelby County, 97.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92.2% of locals are Caucasian, 0.3% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.5%
Non-citizens
1.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 11,464 97.3% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 175 1.5% 12.2%
Non-citizens 139 1.2% 28.7%
Racial breakdown
White
92.2%
Black or African American
0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.9%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.4%
Other
1.8%
Value Percent
White 10,854 92.2%
Black or African American 37 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 101 0.9%
Asian 56 0.5%
Two or more races 518 4.4%
Other 212 1.8%

Households in Shelby County

A peek inside Shelby County households

Shelby County has 4,882 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 67.1% are families, while the remaining 32.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,882
-2.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,605
Family households
3,277
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,605 32.9% -8.9%
Family households 3,277 67.1% 1.7%
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 Shelby County

The housing landscape of Shelby County

Shelby County's housing consists of 5,441 units, with 87.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.9% 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 4.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,441
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,738 87.1%
1 unit, attached 47 0.9%
2 units 59 1.1%
3 or 4 units 172 3.2%
5 to 9 units 31 0.6%
10 to 19 units 15 0.3%
20 to 49 units 84 1.5%
50 or more units 63 1.2%
Mobile home 232 4.3%
Homes built since 2020
39
550.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Shelby County

In Shelby County, the median construction year is 1949. About 46.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.5% 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, 3.4% 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 2,550 46.9% -2.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 189 3.5% -1.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 465 8.6% -11.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 448 8.2% -3.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 650 12% 0.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 315 5.8% 14.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 300 5.5% 8.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 302 5.6% -6.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 183 3.4% 50.0%
Built in 2020 or later 39 0.7% 550.0%
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.

Shelby County occupancy rates

Out of the 4,882 occupied housing units in Shelby County, 77.8% are owner-occupied, while 22.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,882
-2.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,084
Owner occupied
3,798
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,084 22.2% -10.2%
Owner occupied 3,798 77.8% 0.6%
Unoccupied housing units
10.3%
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.

Shelby County housing costs

Housing costs in Shelby County come to a median of $887 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $783.

Median housing costs per month
$887/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 Shelby County
$783/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 Shelby County

Shelby County education at a glance

About 40.5% of the population in Shelby County went to high school, while 22.1% pursued college studies. Another 13.7% earned an associate degree and 14.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 143 1.6% 10.0%
High school diploma 3,679 40.5% -0.8%
College diploma 2,003 22.1% -1.6%
Associate degree 1,241 13.7% 1.0%
Bachelor's degree 1,335 14.7% -2.0%
Graduate degree 678 7.5% 11.9%
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 Shelby County

How much people earn in Shelby County

The average annual household income in Shelby County was $97,055 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $72,738, reflecting a +7.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Shelby County
$97,055/year
5.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Shelby County
$72,738/year
7.5% year-over-year change

Shelby County income by age

In Shelby County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $80,777. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $87,450 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $36,494, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $53,889 in earnings. Overall, 92.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $36,494 -20.8%
25 - 44 $80,777 3.7%
45 - 64 $87,450 3.7%
Over 65 $53,889 16.0%
Above poverty level
10,646
Below poverty level
879
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 10,646 92.4% 1.5%
Below poverty level 879 7.6% -10.5%

Employment in Shelby County

Workforce and job types in Shelby County

The job market in Shelby County is powered by 5,711 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15.6% run their own businesses, 58.4% are employed by private companies, and 15.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,711
-2.0% year-over-year change
White collar
4,054
Blue collar
1,657
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,054 71% -0.8%
Blue collar 1,657 29% -4.6%
Employer type
Self employees
15.6%
Private companies
58.4%
Governmental workers
15.4%
Not for profit companies
10.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 890 15.6% -12.7%
Private companies 3,335 58.4% -4.7%
Governmental workers 882 15.4% 16.7%
Not for profit companies 604 10.6% 9.6%
Unemployment rate
3.2%
-5.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Shelby County stands at 3.2%, 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 Shelby County

How people get around in Shelby County

Commuting methods vary: 80% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5.7% 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 4,544 80% -4.3%
Taxicab 7 0.1% 16.7%
Bus or trolleybus 27 0.5% 170.0%
Ferryboat 2 0% 0.0%
Walk 322 5.7% 5.2%
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 Shelby County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
51446 499 231 $62,750 $122,762
51447 113 52 $68,214 $80,302
51454 1,254 438 $100,625 $121,416
51521 1,953 878 $73,769 $101,947
51527 362 166 $64,750 $107,198
51529 1,732 825 $61,599 $86,347
51530 809 365 $73,750 $94,333
51531 889 389 $59,199 $88,195
51537 6,382 2,538 $65,000 $91,378
51543 478 159 $72,083 $85,484

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FAQs about Shelby County demographics 

What is the total population of Shelby County?

Shelby County has a total population of 11,778 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 Shelby County?

The gender ratio in Shelby County is as follows:
  • 49.5% males (5,830 residents)
  • 50.5% females (5,948 residents)

What is the median age in Shelby County?

The median age in Shelby County is 44.3.

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

The age distribution in Shelby County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.2% (2,139 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.3% (1,453 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.2% (2,381 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.2% (3,081 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.1% (2,724 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Shelby County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Shelby County is as follows:
  • White: 92.2% (10,854 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.3% (37 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.9% (101 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (56 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.4% (518 residents)
  • Other: 1.8% (212 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.3% of the population in Shelby County.

How many housing units are there in Shelby County?

There are 5,441 housing units in Shelby 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 Shelby County and what is the average household size?

Shelby County has a total of 4,882 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Shelby County?

Shelby County has a median household income of $72,738, representing a +7.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.8% in Shelby County, with a workforce of 5,711 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71% (4,054 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29% (1,657 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15.6% (890 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.4% (3,335 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.4% (882 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.6% (604 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