Wadena, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
177
-14.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$38,750/yr
-20.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
112
-2.6% year-over-year change

Wadena population

How many people live in Wadena

Wadena is home to 177 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 55.4% of Wadena locals are male, and 44.6% are female.

Total population
177
-14.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
55.4%
98
Female
44.6%
79
Value Percent YoY change
Male 98 55.4% -8.4%
Female 79 44.6% -20.2%
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 Wadena is 54, with the population distributed as follows: about 7.9% are children under 15, then 5.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 18.6% of the population, while another 33.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 33.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
53.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
7.9%
15 to 24
5.6%
25 to 44
18.6%
45 to 64
33.9%
Over 65
33.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 14 7.9% -50.0%
15 to 24 10 5.6% -41.2%
25 to 44 33 18.6% -31.2%
45 to 64 60 33.9% 42.9%
Over 65 60 33.9% -15.5%
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 Wadena, 98.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. There’s also a share of 2.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.7%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 174 98.3% -13.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3 1.7% -25.0%
Racial breakdown
White
90.4%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.3%
Other
6.8%
Value Percent
White 160 90.4%
Asian 1 0.6%
Two or more races 4 2.3%
Other 12 6.8%

Households in Wadena

A peek inside Wadena households

Wadena has 94 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 43.6% are families, while the remaining 56.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
94
-1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
53
Family households
41
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 53 56.4% 15.2%
Family households 41 43.6% -16.3%
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 Wadena

The housing landscape of Wadena

Wadena's housing consists of 112 units, with 86.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 2.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
112
-2.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 97 86.6%
2 units 2 1.8%
5 to 9 units 10 8.9%
Mobile home 3 2.7%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Wadena

In Wadena, the median construction year is 1938. About 54.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 61 54.5% 0.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 11 9.8% -8.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 10 8.9% 42.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 6 5.4% 100.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 9 8% -40.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 10 8.9% 233.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2 1.8% -77.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3 2.7% -40.0%
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.

Wadena occupancy rates

Out of the 94 occupied housing units in Wadena, 76.6% are owner-occupied, while 23.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 16.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
94
-1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
22
Owner occupied
72
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 22 23.4% 46.7%
Owner occupied 72 76.6% -10.0%
Unoccupied housing units
16.1%
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.

Wadena housing costs

Housing costs in Wadena come to a median of $550 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $532.

Median housing costs per month
$550/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 Wadena
$532/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 Wadena

Wadena education at a glance

About 52.6% of the population in Wadena went to high school, while 15.4% pursued college studies. Another 16% earned an associate degree and 11.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 1.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 4 2.6% 300.0%
High school diploma 82 52.6% 2.5%
College diploma 24 15.4% -33.3%
Associate degree 25 16% -19.4%
Bachelor's degree 18 11.5% -14.3%
Graduate degree 3 1.9% 0.0%
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 Wadena

How much people earn in Wadena

The average annual household income in Wadena was $44,366 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -20.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $38,750, reflecting a -20% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Wadena
$44,366/year
-20.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Wadena
$38,750/year
-20.0% year-over-year change

Wadena income by age

In Wadena, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $65,833. Overall, 72.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $65,833 25.4%
Over 65 $29,583 -38.5%
Above poverty level
127
Below poverty level
49
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 127 72.2% -27.8%
Below poverty level 49 27.8% 75.0%

Employment in Wadena

Workforce and job types in Wadena

The job market in Wadena is powered by 58 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 19% run their own businesses, 58.6% are employed by private companies, and 10.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
58
-15.9% year-over-year change
White collar
42
Blue collar
16
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 42 72.4% 5.0%
Blue collar 16 27.6% -44.8%
Employer type
Self employees
19%
Private companies
58.6%
Governmental workers
10.3%
Not for profit companies
12.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 11 19% 175.0%
Private companies 34 58.6% -32.0%
Governmental workers 6 10.3% -25.0%
Not for profit companies 7 12.1% 0.0%
Unemployment rate
4.9%
0.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Wadena stands at 4.9%, 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 Wadena

How people get around in Wadena

Commuting methods vary: 77.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.4% 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 45 77.6% -30.8%
Walk 2 3.4% 0.0%
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 Wadena by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
52169 367 170 $52,321 $58,686

Explore more communities

FAQs about Wadena demographics 

What is the total population of Wadena?

Wadena has a total population of 177 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 -14.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Wadena?

The gender ratio in Wadena is as follows:
  • 55.4% males (98 residents)
  • 44.6% females (79 residents)

What is the median age in Wadena?

The median age in Wadena is 53.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Wadena?

The age distribution in Wadena is as follows:
  • Under 15: 7.9% (14 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 5.6% (10 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 18.6% (33 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 33.9% (60 residents)
  • Over 65: 33.9% (60 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Wadena?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Wadena is as follows:
  • White: 90.4% (160 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0.6% (1 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.3% (4 residents)
  • Other: 6.8% (12 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.3% of the population in Wadena.

How many housing units are there in Wadena?

There are 112 housing units in Wadena, reflecting a -2.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Wadena has a total of 94 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Wadena?

Wadena has a median household income of $38,750, representing a -20.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Wadena?

The employment rate is 95.1% in Wadena, with a workforce of 58 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.4% (42 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.6% (16 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 19% (11 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.6% (34 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.3% (6 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.1% (7 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