Van Buren County, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
7,241
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$61,161/yr
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,490
-0.5% year-over-year change

Van Buren County population

How many people live in Van Buren County

Van Buren County is home to 7,241 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.4% of Van Buren County locals are male, and 48.6% are female.

Total population
7,241
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.4%
3,718
Female
48.6%
3,523
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,718 51.4% 0.6%
Female 3,523 48.6% -0.5%
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 Van Buren County is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.5% are children under 15, then 10.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.3% of the population, while another 25.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.5%
15 to 24
10.9%
25 to 44
20.3%
45 to 64
25.7%
Over 65
23.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,409 19.5% 1.9%
15 to 24 790 10.9% 0.1%
25 to 44 1,471 20.3% -0.7%
45 to 64 1,864 25.7% -1.9%
Over 65 1,707 23.6% 1.5%
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 Van Buren County, 98.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.3% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.9%
Non-citizens
0.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 7,154 98.8% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 66 0.9% -10.8%
Non-citizens 21 0.3% -36.4%
Racial breakdown
White
95.5%
Black or African American
0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3%
Other
1%
Value Percent
White 6,914 95.5%
Black or African American 31 0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 4 0.1%
Asian 3 0%
Two or more races 215 3%
Other 74 1%

Households in Van Buren County

A peek inside Van Buren County households

Van Buren County has 2,896 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63% are families, while the remaining 37% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,896
-0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,071
Family households
1,825
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,071 37% -0.4%
Family households 1,825 63% 0.1%
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 Van Buren County

The housing landscape of Van Buren County

Van Buren County's housing consists of 3,490 units, with 85.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.7% 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 7.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,490
-0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,999 85.9%
1 unit, attached 26 0.7%
2 units 51 1.5%
3 or 4 units 114 3.3%
5 to 9 units 13 0.4%
10 to 19 units 9 0.3%
20 to 49 units 1 0%
50 or more units 3 0.1%
Mobile home 274 7.8%
Homes built since 2020
56
229.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Van Buren County

In Van Buren County, the median construction year is 1970. About 33.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,171 33.6% 0.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 95 2.7% 1.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 182 5.2% 17.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 274 7.8% 2.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 615 17.6% 8.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 279 8% -16.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 329 9.4% -20.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 346 9.9% 8.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 143 4.1% -15.9%
Built in 2020 or later 56 1.6% 229.4%
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.

Van Buren County occupancy rates

Out of the 2,896 occupied housing units in Van Buren County, 81.6% are owner-occupied, while 18.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,896
-0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
532
Owner occupied
2,364
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 532 18.4% 8.3%
Owner occupied 2,364 81.6% -1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
17.0%
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.

Van Buren County housing costs

Housing costs in Van Buren County come to a median of $668 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $622.

Median housing costs per month
$668/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 Van Buren County
$622/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 Van Buren County

Van Buren County education at a glance

About 38.5% of the population in Van Buren County went to high school, while 20.3% pursued college studies. Another 9.3% earned an associate degree and 12.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 782 14.1% 43.5%
High school diploma 2,128 38.5% -1.1%
College diploma 1,123 20.3% -10.2%
Associate degree 516 9.3% -10.6%
Bachelor's degree 689 12.4% -6.0%
Graduate degree 294 5.3% -1.3%
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 Van Buren County

How much people earn in Van Buren County

The average annual household income in Van Buren County was $82,878 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +8.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $61,161, reflecting a +1.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Van Buren County
$82,878/year
8.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Van Buren County
$61,161/year
1.6% year-over-year change

Van Buren County income by age

In Van Buren County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $79,451. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $78,478 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $41,625, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $41,014 in earnings. Overall, 84.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $41,625 4.6%
25 - 44 $79,451 -3.0%
45 - 64 $78,478 8.1%
Over 65 $41,014 -3.3%
Above poverty level
5,966
Below poverty level
1,077
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 5,966 84.7% -3.4%
Below poverty level 1,077 15.3% 23.6%

Employment in Van Buren County

Workforce and job types in Van Buren County

The job market in Van Buren County is powered by 3,204 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 58.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 41.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 23.8% run their own businesses, 55.9% are employed by private companies, and 15.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,204
-0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
1,879
Blue collar
1,325
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,879 58.6% -5.3%
Blue collar 1,325 41.4% 6.9%
Employer type
Self employees
23.8%
Private companies
55.9%
Governmental workers
15.4%
Not for profit companies
4.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 763 23.8% 20.7%
Private companies 1,791 55.9% -5.5%
Governmental workers 492 15.4% -12.1%
Not for profit companies 158 4.9% 17.0%
Unemployment rate
4.1%
-2.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Van Buren County stands at 4.1%, 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 Van Buren County

How people get around in Van Buren County

Commuting methods vary: 81.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.8% 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 2,463 81.1% -4.5%
Bus or trolleybus 11 0.4% 37.5%
Bicycle 11 0.4% 10.0%
Walk 147 4.8% 31.2%
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 Van Buren County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
52535 725 348 $75,000 $83,702
52542 588 232 $65,000 $78,283
52551 782 345 $52,875 $60,902
52565 1,518 637 $62,992 $93,504
52567 506 257 $81,985 $86,089
52570 1,130 302 $68,750 $87,362
52573 148 60 $35,179 $44,903
52588 91 51 $13,657 $14,563
52620 1,097 398 $79,327 $127,441
52626 1,103 466 $59,342 $67,465

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FAQs about Van Buren County demographics 

What is the total population of Van Buren County?

Van Buren County has a total population of 7,241 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 Van Buren County?

The gender ratio in Van Buren County is as follows:
  • 51.4% males (3,718 residents)
  • 48.6% females (3,523 residents)

What is the median age in Van Buren County?

The median age in Van Buren County is 44.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Van Buren County?

The age distribution in Van Buren County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.5% (1,409 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.9% (790 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.3% (1,471 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.7% (1,864 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.6% (1,707 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Van Buren County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Van Buren County is as follows:
  • White: 95.5% (6,914 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.4% (31 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (4 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (3 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3% (215 residents)
  • Other: 1% (74 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.8% of the population in Van Buren County.

How many housing units are there in Van Buren County?

There are 3,490 housing units in Van Buren County, reflecting a -0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Van Buren County has a total of 2,896 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Van Buren County?

Van Buren County has a median household income of $61,161, representing a +1.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.9% in Van Buren County, with a workforce of 3,204 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 58.6% (1,879 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 41.4% (1,325 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 23.8% (763 residents)
  • Private companies: 55.9% (1,791 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.4% (492 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.9% (158 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