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

Total population
100,466
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$69,685/yr
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
41,887
0.6% year-over-year change

Story County population

How many people live in Story County

Story County is home to 100,466 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52.3% of Story County locals are male, and 47.7% are female.

Total population
100,466
1.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52.3%
52,587
Female
47.7%
47,879
Value Percent YoY change
Male 52,587 52.3% 2.2%
Female 47,879 47.7% 1.5%
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 Story County is 27, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.3% are children under 15, then 33.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.9% of the population, while another 16.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
26.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.3%
15 to 24
33.8%
25 to 44
22.9%
45 to 64
16.8%
Over 65
13.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 13,386 13.3% -0.8%
15 to 24 33,928 33.8% 4.2%
25 to 44 22,978 22.9% 0.4%
45 to 64 16,899 16.8% 0.1%
Over 65 13,275 13.2% 3.9%
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 Story County, 90.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 82.4% of locals are Caucasian, 2.8% are African American and 6.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.5% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.1%
Non-citizens
5.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 90,728 90.3% 1.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,134 4.1% 5.0%
Non-citizens 5,604 5.6% 7.4%
Racial breakdown
White
82.4%
Black or African American
2.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
6.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
5.8%
Other
1.8%
Value Percent
White 82,831 82.4%
Black or African American 2,796 2.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 465 0.5%
Asian 6,641 6.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 110 0.1%
Two or more races 5,804 5.8%
Other 1,819 1.8%

Households in Story County

A peek inside Story County households

Story County has 38,904 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 48% are families, while the remaining 52% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
38,904
0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
20,227
Family households
18,677
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 20,227 52% 2.2%
Family households 18,677 48% -1.2%
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 Story County

The housing landscape of Story County

Story County's housing consists of 41,887 units, with 51.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.2% 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 3.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
41,887
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 21,583 51.5%
1 unit, attached 2,187 5.2%
2 units 1,399 3.3%
3 or 4 units 1,646 3.9%
5 to 9 units 2,294 5.5%
10 to 19 units 4,628 11%
20 to 49 units 4,440 10.6%
50 or more units 2,054 4.9%
Mobile home 1,647 3.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 9 0%
Homes built since 2020
829
39.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Story County

In Story County, the median construction year is 1984. About 14.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 14.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,907 14.1% -2.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,017 2.4% -4.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,822 6.7% -4.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,056 9.7% 2.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,784 13.8% 1.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,156 7.5% -0.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 5,634 13.4% -4.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 6,480 15.5% 2.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 6,202 14.8% 6.0%
Built in 2020 or later 829 2% 39.8%
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.

Story County occupancy rates

Out of the 38,904 occupied housing units in Story County, 55.5% are owner-occupied, while 44.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
38,904
0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
17,305
Owner occupied
21,599
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 17,305 44.5% 1.6%
Owner occupied 21,599 55.5% -0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
7.1%
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.

Story County housing costs

Housing costs in Story County come to a median of $1,105 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,018.

Median housing costs per month
$1,105/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 Story County
$1,018/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 Story County

Story County education at a glance

About 18.8% of the population in Story County went to high school, while 33.6% pursued college studies. Another 8.7% earned an associate degree and 23.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 351 0.4% -13.8%
High school diploma 15,860 18.8% 5.6%
College diploma 28,309 33.6% -1.1%
Associate degree 7,353 8.7% -2.8%
Bachelor's degree 19,647 23.3% 5.2%
Graduate degree 12,670 15% 4.6%
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 Story County

How much people earn in Story County

The average annual household income in Story County was $96,851 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $69,685, reflecting a +1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Story County
$96,851/year
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Story County
$69,685/year
1.0% year-over-year change

Story County income by age

In Story County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $76,536. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $109,469 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $34,742, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $69,964 in earnings. Overall, 81.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $34,742 4.0%
25 - 44 $76,536 1.1%
45 - 64 $109,469 5.5%
Over 65 $69,964 1.8%
Above poverty level
70,966
Below poverty level
15,865
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 70,966 81.7% 2.0%
Below poverty level 15,865 18.3% -0.6%

Employment in Story County

Workforce and job types in Story County

The job market in Story County is powered by 54,672 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.6% run their own businesses, 56.6% are employed by private companies, and 27.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
54,672
3.9% year-over-year change
White collar
45,287
Blue collar
9,385
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 45,287 82.8% 3.4%
Blue collar 9,385 17.2% 6.6%
Employer type
Self employees
7.6%
Private companies
56.6%
Governmental workers
27.9%
Not for profit companies
7.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,178 7.6% 7.0%
Private companies 30,967 56.6% 4.1%
Governmental workers 15,262 27.9% 0.7%
Not for profit companies 4,265 7.8% 12.4%
Unemployment rate
4.8%
-1.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Story County stands at 4.8%, 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 Story County

How people get around in Story County

In Story County, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 75.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 7.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
-2.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 39,989 75.2% 1.0%
Bus or trolleybus 2,065 3.9% 1.6%
Motorcycle 18 0% 200.0%
Bicycle 643 1.2% 13.8%
Walk 3,903 7.3% 34.1%
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 Story County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50010 33,799 14,233 $65,398 $87,894
50012 1,913 4 $0 $0
50014 32,958 13,511 $60,731 $91,759
50046 1,554 650 $81,500 $101,968
50055 1,102 436 $85,278 $120,642
50056 1,003 464 $73,333 $94,653
50105 1,487 591 $130,083 $141,720
50124 4,859 1,639 $114,904 $129,281
50134 770 315 $111,250 $141,472

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FAQs about Story County demographics 

What is the total population of Story County?

Story County has a total population of 100,466 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 +1.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Story County?

The gender ratio in Story County is as follows:
  • 52.3% males (52,587 residents)
  • 47.7% females (47,879 residents)

What is the median age in Story County?

The median age in Story County is 26.9.

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

The age distribution in Story County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.3% (13,386 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 33.8% (33,928 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.9% (22,978 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 16.8% (16,899 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.2% (13,275 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Story County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Story County is as follows:
  • White: 82.4% (82,831 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.8% (2,796 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (465 residents)
  • Asian: 6.6% (6,641 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (110 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.8% (5,804 residents)
  • Other: 1.8% (1,819 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.3% of the population in Story County.

How many housing units are there in Story County?

There are 41,887 housing units in Story County, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Story County has a total of 38,904 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Story County?

Story County has a median household income of $69,685, representing a +1.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.2% in Story County, with a workforce of 54,672 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.8% (45,287 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.2% (9,385 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.6% (4,178 residents)
  • Private companies: 56.6% (30,967 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 27.9% (15,262 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.8% (4,265 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