Wapello, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
1,765
-8.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$72,708/yr
2.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
862
-3.0% year-over-year change

Wapello population

How many people live in Wapello

Wapello is home to 1,765 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.7% of Wapello locals are male, and 51.3% are female.

Total population
1,765
-8.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.7%
860
Female
51.3%
905
Value Percent YoY change
Male 860 48.7% -11.3%
Female 905 51.3% -6.2%
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 Wapello is 50, with the population distributed as follows: about 9.9% are children under 15, then 11.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.9% of the population, while another 22.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 31.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
49.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
9.9%
15 to 24
11.8%
25 to 44
23.9%
45 to 64
22.8%
Over 65
31.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 175 9.9% -21.9%
15 to 24 209 11.8% -25.4%
25 to 44 422 23.9% -5.8%
45 to 64 403 22.8% -2.4%
Over 65 556 31.5% -2.5%
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 Wapello, 94.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 6.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3%
Non-citizens
3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 1,661 94.1% -10.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 52 3% 23.8%
Non-citizens 52 3% 10.6%
Racial breakdown
White
86.4%
Black or African American
0.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.1%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.5%
Other
5.5%
Value Percent
White 1,525 86.4%
Black or African American 9 0.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 20 1.1%
Two or more races 114 6.5%
Other 97 5.5%

Households in Wapello

A peek inside Wapello households

Wapello has 830 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.5% are families, while the remaining 36.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
830
-3.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
303
Family households
527
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 303 36.5% 14.8%
Family households 527 63.5% -11.1%
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

The housing landscape of Wapello

Wapello's housing consists of 862 units, with 86.3% 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.

Housing units
862
-3.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 744 86.3%
1 unit, attached 6 0.7%
2 units 53 6.2%
3 or 4 units 59 6.8%
Homes built since 2020
4
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Wapello

In Wapello, the median construction year is 1963. About 32.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 278 32.2% -14.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 35 4.1% -46.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 106 12.3% 43.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 47 5.4% -16.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 216 25.1% 18.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 45 5.2% -2.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 42 4.9% 0.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 34 3.9% -15.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 55 6.4% -3.5%
Built in 2020 or later 4 0.5% N/A
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 occupancy rates

Out of the 830 occupied housing units in Wapello, 68.3% are owner-occupied, while 31.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
830
-3.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
263
Owner occupied
567
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 263 31.7% 3.1%
Owner occupied 567 68.3% -5.8%
Unoccupied housing units
3.7%
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 housing costs

Housing costs in Wapello come to a median of $759 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $711.

Median housing costs per month
$759/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
$711/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

Wapello education at a glance

About 49.6% of the population in Wapello went to high school, while 21.2% pursued college studies. Another 11.2% earned an associate degree and 11.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 2.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 57 3.7% 21.3%
High school diploma 756 49.6% -4.2%
College diploma 323 21.2% -5.8%
Associate degree 170 11.2% 1.8%
Bachelor's degree 177 11.6% -14.1%
Graduate degree 41 2.7% -19.6%
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 Wapello

How much people earn in Wapello

The average annual household income in Wapello was $75,277 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -3.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $72,708, reflecting a +2.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Wapello
$75,277/year
-3.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Wapello
$72,708/year
2.2% year-over-year change

Wapello income by age

In Wapello, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $76,125. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $96,250 overall. Overall, 93.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $76,125 -8.2%
45 - 64 $96,250 16.9%
Over 65 $49,471 -14.7%
Above poverty level
1,597
Below poverty level
111
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,597 93.5% -8.7%
Below poverty level 111 6.5% -13.3%

Average renter income in Wapello

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Wapello, their median household income was $50,625 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 16.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$50,625
Rent-to-income ratio
16.9%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Wapello

Workforce and job types in Wapello

The job market in Wapello is powered by 879 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 60.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 39.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 3.5% run their own businesses, 78.3% are employed by private companies, and 13% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
879
-9.5% year-over-year change
White collar
531
Blue collar
348
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 531 60.4% -18.4%
Blue collar 348 39.6% 8.8%
Employer type
Self employees
3.5%
Private companies
78.3%
Governmental workers
13%
Not for profit companies
5.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 31 3.5% 19.2%
Private companies 688 78.3% -7.3%
Governmental workers 114 13% -23.5%
Not for profit companies 46 5.2% -14.8%
Unemployment rate
3.5%
33.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Wapello stands at 3.5%, 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

How people get around in Wapello

Commuting methods vary: 89.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1% 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 785 89.3% -11.9%
Bus or trolleybus 6 0.7% N/A
Walk 9 1% 125.0%
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 Wapello by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
52653 3,083 1,421 $83,525 $86,749

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FAQs about Wapello demographics 

What is the total population of Wapello?

Wapello has a total population of 1,765 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 -8.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Wapello?

The gender ratio in Wapello is as follows:
  • 48.7% males (860 residents)
  • 51.3% females (905 residents)

What is the median age in Wapello?

The median age in Wapello is 49.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Wapello?

The age distribution in Wapello is as follows:
  • Under 15: 9.9% (175 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.8% (209 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.9% (422 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.8% (403 residents)
  • Over 65: 31.5% (556 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Wapello?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Wapello is as follows:
  • White: 86.4% (1,525 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.5% (9 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.1% (20 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.5% (114 residents)
  • Other: 5.5% (97 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.1% of the population in Wapello.

How many housing units are there in Wapello?

There are 862 housing units in Wapello, reflecting a -3.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Wapello has a total of 830 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Wapello?

Wapello has a median household income of $72,708, representing a +2.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.5% in Wapello, with a workforce of 879 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 60.4% (531 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 39.6% (348 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 3.5% (31 residents)
  • Private companies: 78.3% (688 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13% (114 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.2% (46 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