Waterloo, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
67,008
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$57,480/yr
2.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
32,143
-0.1% year-over-year change

Waterloo population

How many people live in Waterloo

Waterloo is home to 67,008 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49% of Waterloo locals are male, and 51% are female.

Total population
67,008
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49%
32,835
Female
51%
34,173
Value Percent YoY change
Male 32,835 49% -0.4%
Female 34,173 51% 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 Waterloo is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.6% are children under 15, then 13% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.2% of the population, while another 22.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.6%
15 to 24
13%
25 to 44
27.2%
45 to 64
22.2%
Over 65
17%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 13,811 20.6% 0.5%
15 to 24 8,709 13% -2.7%
25 to 44 18,199 27.2% 1.6%
45 to 64 14,902 22.2% -1.7%
Over 65 11,387 17% 1.8%
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 Waterloo, 88.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 67.4% of locals are Caucasian, 16.6% are African American and 3.2% have Asian roots. Another 0.4% are Indigenous American, 1.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 4.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 6.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.9%
Non-citizens
5.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 59,174 88.3% -0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,954 5.9% 0.5%
Non-citizens 3,880 5.8% 15.3%
Racial breakdown
White
67.4%
Black or African American
16.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
3.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
1.4%
Two or more races
6.7%
Other
4.3%
Value Percent
White 45,133 67.4%
Black or African American 11,130 16.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 286 0.4%
Asian 2,125 3.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 964 1.4%
Two or more races 4,498 6.7%
Other 2,872 4.3%

Households in Waterloo

A peek inside Waterloo households

Waterloo has 29,283 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55% are families, while the remaining 45% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
29,283
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
13,180
Family households
16,103
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 13,180 45% 2.1%
Family households 16,103 55% 0.4%
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 Waterloo

The housing landscape of Waterloo

Waterloo's housing consists of 32,143 units, with 68.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.5% 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 3.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
32,143
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 22,142 68.9%
1 unit, attached 1,433 4.5%
2 units 875 2.7%
3 or 4 units 1,021 3.2%
5 to 9 units 1,978 6.2%
10 to 19 units 1,567 4.9%
20 to 49 units 502 1.6%
50 or more units 1,546 4.8%
Mobile home 1,074 3.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 5 0%
Homes built since 2020
219
491.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Waterloo

In Waterloo, the median construction year is 1962. About 21.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 6,947 21.6% 0.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,602 8.1% 3.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 5,773 18% -6.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,667 14.5% -4.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,549 14.2% -0.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,062 6.4% 15.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,508 4.7% -10.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,048 6.4% 9.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,768 5.5% -0.2%
Built in 2020 or later 219 0.7% 491.9%
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.

Waterloo occupancy rates

Out of the 29,283 occupied housing units in Waterloo, 62.1% are owner-occupied, while 37.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
29,283
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
11,106
Owner occupied
18,177
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 11,106 37.9% -1.3%
Owner occupied 18,177 62.1% 2.7%
Unoccupied housing units
8.9%
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.

Waterloo housing costs

Housing costs in Waterloo come to a median of $934 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $923.

Median housing costs per month
$934/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 Waterloo
$923/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 Waterloo

Waterloo education at a glance

About 42.1% of the population in Waterloo went to high school, while 22.3% pursued college studies. Another 10.4% earned an associate degree and 14.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,505 5% 29.8%
High school diploma 21,320 42.1% -0.1%
College diploma 11,263 22.3% -2.9%
Associate degree 5,254 10.4% 4.1%
Bachelor's degree 7,129 14.1% -5.1%
Graduate degree 3,128 6.2% 0.5%
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 Waterloo

How much people earn in Waterloo

The average annual household income in Waterloo was $74,903 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -2.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $57,480, reflecting a +2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Waterloo
$74,903/year
-2.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Waterloo
$57,480/year
2.0% year-over-year change

Waterloo income by age

In Waterloo, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $65,063. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $62,737 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $44,409, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $48,415 in earnings. Overall, 83.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $44,409 -0.9%
25 - 44 $65,063 5.2%
45 - 64 $62,737 0.5%
Over 65 $48,415 -0.2%
Above poverty level
54,263
Below poverty level
10,454
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 54,263 83.8% -0.3%
Below poverty level 10,454 16.2% 0.1%

Average renter income in Waterloo

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Waterloo, their median household income was $35,162 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 31.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$35,162
Rent-to-income ratio
31.5%
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 Waterloo

Workforce and job types in Waterloo

The job market in Waterloo is powered by 32,473 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 66.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 33.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.3% run their own businesses, 75% are employed by private companies, and 9.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
32,473
0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
21,600
Blue collar
10,873
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 21,600 66.5% 0.4%
Blue collar 10,873 33.5% 1.0%
Employer type
Self employees
6.3%
Private companies
75%
Governmental workers
9.5%
Not for profit companies
9.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,042 6.3% 2.1%
Private companies 24,351 75% 1.2%
Governmental workers 3,079 9.5% -4.0%
Not for profit companies 3,001 9.2% -0.5%
Unemployment rate
5.3%
-17.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Waterloo stands at 5.3%, 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 Waterloo

How people get around in Waterloo

Commuting methods vary: 89.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.6% 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 28,491 89.5% -0.1%
Taxicab 9 0% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 123 0.4% 7.0%
Ferryboat 14 0% 250.0%
Motorcycle 10 0% 66.7%
Bicycle 161 0.5% 35.3%
Walk 495 1.6% 5.8%
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 Waterloo by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50701 30,232 13,656 $61,475 $86,413
50702 20,882 8,892 $62,021 $75,687
50703 17,952 7,445 $50,060 $64,505

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FAQs about Waterloo demographics 

What is the total population of Waterloo?

Waterloo has a total population of 67,008 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 Waterloo?

The gender ratio in Waterloo is as follows:
  • 49% males (32,835 residents)
  • 51% females (34,173 residents)

What is the median age in Waterloo?

The median age in Waterloo is 36.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Waterloo?

The age distribution in Waterloo is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.6% (13,811 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13% (8,709 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.2% (18,199 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.2% (14,902 residents)
  • Over 65: 17% (11,387 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Waterloo?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Waterloo is as follows:
  • White: 67.4% (45,133 residents)
  • Black or African American: 16.6% (11,130 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (286 residents)
  • Asian: 3.2% (2,125 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 1.4% (964 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.7% (4,498 residents)
  • Other: 4.3% (2,872 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.3% of the population in Waterloo.

How many housing units are there in Waterloo?

There are 32,143 housing units in Waterloo, 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 Waterloo and what is the average household size?

Waterloo has a total of 29,283 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Waterloo?

Waterloo has a median household income of $57,480, representing a +2.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.7% in Waterloo, with a workforce of 32,473 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 66.5% (21,600 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 33.5% (10,873 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.3% (2,042 residents)
  • Private companies: 75% (24,351 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.5% (3,079 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.2% (3,001 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