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

Total population
35,362
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$64,766/yr
7.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
15,730
-0.1% year-over-year change

Wapello County population

How many people live in Wapello County

Wapello County is home to 35,362 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.6% of Wapello County locals are male, and 49.4% are female.

Total population
35,362
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.6%
17,909
Female
49.4%
17,453
Value Percent YoY change
Male 17,909 50.6% -0.1%
Female 17,453 49.4% 0.6%
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 Wapello County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.3% are children under 15, then 12.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.4% of the population, while another 25.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.3%
15 to 24
12.8%
25 to 44
24.4%
45 to 64
25.2%
Over 65
18.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,820 19.3% 0.9%
15 to 24 4,533 12.8% 0.9%
25 to 44 8,613 24.4% 0.2%
45 to 64 8,900 25.2% -1.7%
Over 65 6,496 18.4% 2.1%
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 Wapello County, 89.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 79.1% of locals are Caucasian, 3% are African American and 1.8% have Asian roots. Another 0.4% are Indigenous American, 2.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 4.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.4%
Non-citizens
6.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 31,599 89.4% -0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,562 4.4% 3.6%
Non-citizens 2,201 6.2% 16.0%
Racial breakdown
White
79.1%
Black or African American
3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
1.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
2.4%
Two or more races
9%
Other
4.3%
Value Percent
White 27,965 79.1%
Black or African American 1,068 3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 155 0.4%
Asian 634 1.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 857 2.4%
Two or more races 3,175 9%
Other 1,508 4.3%

Households in Wapello County

A peek inside Wapello County households

Wapello County has 13,997 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.6% are families, while the remaining 34.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
13,997
-0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,815
Family households
9,182
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,815 34.4% -1.9%
Family households 9,182 65.6% 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 Wapello County

The housing landscape of Wapello County

Wapello County's housing consists of 15,730 units, with 77.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.8% 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 4.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
15,730
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 12,152 77.2%
1 unit, attached 282 1.8%
2 units 327 2.1%
3 or 4 units 439 2.8%
5 to 9 units 449 2.8%
10 to 19 units 598 3.8%
20 to 49 units 420 2.7%
50 or more units 399 2.5%
Mobile home 664 4.2%
Homes built since 2020
70
159.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Wapello County

In Wapello County, the median construction year is 1958. About 27.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 4,393 27.9% 2.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,626 10.3% -5.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,208 14% -9.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,765 11.2% 8.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,997 12.7% -12.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,156 7.4% 7.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,133 7.2% 4.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,104 7% 16.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 278 1.8% 37.6%
Built in 2020 or later 70 0.4% 159.3%
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.

Wapello County occupancy rates

Out of the 13,997 occupied housing units in Wapello County, 68.4% are owner-occupied, while 31.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
13,997
-0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,422
Owner occupied
9,575
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,422 31.6% -3.6%
Owner occupied 9,575 68.4% 0.8%
Unoccupied housing units
11.0%
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.

Wapello County housing costs

Housing costs in Wapello County come to a median of $881 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $920.

Median housing costs per month
$881/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 Wapello County
$920/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 Wapello County

Wapello County education at a glance

About 45.1% of the population in Wapello County went to high school, while 19.5% pursued college studies. Another 12.2% earned an associate degree and 10.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,487 5.5% 5.5%
High school diploma 12,152 45.1% -1.0%
College diploma 5,247 19.5% -2.7%
Associate degree 3,297 12.2% 4.9%
Bachelor's degree 2,915 10.8% 2.1%
Graduate degree 1,832 6.8% -0.2%
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 Wapello County

How much people earn in Wapello County

The average annual household income in Wapello County was $82,470 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 $64,766, reflecting a +7.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Wapello County
$82,470/year
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Wapello County
$64,766/year
7.9% year-over-year change

Wapello County income by age

In Wapello County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $70,598. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $78,750 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $54,250, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $51,144 in earnings. Overall, 84.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $54,250 16.2%
25 - 44 $70,598 3.3%
45 - 64 $78,750 12.3%
Over 65 $51,144 10.4%
Above poverty level
28,599
Below poverty level
5,384
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 28,599 84.2% 1.5%
Below poverty level 5,384 15.8% -4.6%

Employment in Wapello County

Workforce and job types in Wapello County

The job market in Wapello County is powered by 16,511 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 62.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 37.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.7% run their own businesses, 68% are employed by private companies, and 13.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
16,511
-0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
10,294
Blue collar
6,217
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,294 62.4% 1.0%
Blue collar 6,217 37.6% -2.0%
Employer type
Self employees
9.7%
Private companies
68%
Governmental workers
13.3%
Not for profit companies
9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,595 9.7% 9.0%
Private companies 11,230 68% 0.1%
Governmental workers 2,203 13.3% -4.3%
Not for profit companies 1,483 9% -4.1%
Unemployment rate
4.3%
14.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Wapello County stands at 4.3%, 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 Wapello County

How people get around in Wapello County

Commuting methods vary: 90.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.5% 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 14,467 90.5% -2.0%
Taxicab 42 0.3% -25.0%
Bus or trolleybus 133 0.8% 125.4%
Ferryboat 2 0% -33.3%
Motorcycle 3 0% 50.0%
Bicycle 24 0.2% N/A
Walk 236 1.5% -12.6%
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 Wapello County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
52501 30,371 11,976 $63,426 $79,117
52530 945 387 $98,125 $110,559
52533 1,201 563 $62,799 $67,995
52536 814 384 $75,000 $72,685
52548 83 37 $75,750 $123,457
52553 1,846 715 $64,583 $131,435
52554 1,078 494 $55,769 $61,249
52563 1,602 558 $98,438 $101,145
52566 266 94 $58,750 $75,728

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Wapello County demographics 

What is the total population of Wapello County?

Wapello County has a total population of 35,362 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 +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Wapello County?

The gender ratio in Wapello County is as follows:
  • 50.6% males (17,909 residents)
  • 49.4% females (17,453 residents)

What is the median age in Wapello County?

The median age in Wapello County is 39.2.

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

The age distribution in Wapello County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.3% (6,820 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.8% (4,533 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.4% (8,613 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.2% (8,900 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.4% (6,496 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Wapello County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Wapello County is as follows:
  • White: 79.1% (27,965 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3% (1,068 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (155 residents)
  • Asian: 1.8% (634 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 2.4% (857 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9% (3,175 residents)
  • Other: 4.3% (1,508 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89.4% of the population in Wapello County.

How many housing units are there in Wapello County?

There are 15,730 housing units in Wapello County, reflecting a -0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Wapello County has a total of 13,997 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Wapello County?

Wapello County has a median household income of $64,766, representing a +7.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.7% in Wapello County, with a workforce of 16,511 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 62.4% (10,294 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 37.6% (6,217 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.7% (1,595 residents)
  • Private companies: 68% (11,230 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.3% (2,203 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9% (1,483 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