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

Total population
36,886
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$68,975/yr
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
17,082
0.2% year-over-year change

Webster County population

How many people live in Webster County

Webster County is home to 36,886 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52.4% of Webster County locals are male, and 47.6% are female.

Total population
36,886
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52.4%
19,337
Female
47.6%
17,549
Value Percent YoY change
Male 19,337 52.4% 0.2%
Female 17,549 47.6% -0.1%
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 Webster County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.3% are children under 15, then 15.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.8% of the population, while another 23.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.3%
15 to 24
15.5%
25 to 44
23.8%
45 to 64
23.5%
Over 65
19.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,397 17.3% -0.4%
15 to 24 5,708 15.5% 2.1%
25 to 44 8,796 23.8% 0.2%
45 to 64 8,662 23.5% -1.6%
Over 65 7,323 19.8% 0.9%
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 Webster County, 96.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86.2% of locals are Caucasian, 3.3% are African American and 1.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.1%
Non-citizens
2.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 35,579 96.5% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 402 1.1% 0.2%
Non-citizens 905 2.4% -7.9%
Racial breakdown
White
86.2%
Black or African American
3.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.9%
Other
1.2%
Value Percent
White 31,785 86.2%
Black or African American 1,201 3.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 96 0.3%
Asian 455 1.2%
Two or more races 2,918 7.9%
Other 431 1.2%

Households in Webster County

A peek inside Webster County households

Webster County has 15,375 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.7% are families, while the remaining 46.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
15,375
-1.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,112
Family households
8,263
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,112 46.3% -1.9%
Family households 8,263 53.7% -1.5%
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 Webster County

The housing landscape of Webster County

Webster County's housing consists of 17,082 units, with 75.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.2% 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 2.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
17,082
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 12,902 75.5%
1 unit, attached 374 2.2%
2 units 802 4.7%
3 or 4 units 831 4.9%
5 to 9 units 333 2%
10 to 19 units 519 3%
20 to 49 units 418 2.4%
50 or more units 484 2.8%
Mobile home 411 2.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 8 0%
Homes built since 2020
128
91.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Webster County

In Webster County, the median construction year is 1957. About 32.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,625 32.9% -0.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,141 6.7% 12.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,539 14.9% -8.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,853 10.8% 5.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,148 12.6% -9.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 945 5.5% 13.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 918 5.4% 1.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,017 6% 1.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 768 4.5% 15.7%
Built in 2020 or later 128 0.8% 91.0%
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.

Webster County occupancy rates

Out of the 15,375 occupied housing units in Webster County, 70.3% are owner-occupied, while 29.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
15,375
-1.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,560
Owner occupied
10,815
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,560 29.7% -2.5%
Owner occupied 10,815 70.3% -1.3%
Unoccupied housing units
10.0%
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.

Webster County housing costs

Housing costs in Webster County come to a median of $815 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $785.

Median housing costs per month
$815/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 Webster County
$785/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 Webster County

Webster County education at a glance

About 40% of the population in Webster County went to high school, while 25.5% pursued college studies. Another 13.8% earned an associate degree and 14% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 444 1.5% -18.2%
High school diploma 11,591 40% 0.5%
College diploma 7,406 25.5% -6.5%
Associate degree 4,012 13.8% 6.8%
Bachelor's degree 4,070 14% 4.2%
Graduate degree 1,478 5.1% 12.6%
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 Webster County

How much people earn in Webster County

The average annual household income in Webster County was $83,997 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $68,975, reflecting a +1.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Webster County
$83,997/year
1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Webster County
$68,975/year
1.4% year-over-year change

Webster County income by age

In Webster County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $76,909. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $83,779 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $50,201, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,701 in earnings. Overall, 87% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $50,201 -4.2%
25 - 44 $76,909 -4.7%
45 - 64 $83,779 2.4%
Over 65 $44,701 5.7%
Above poverty level
29,345
Below poverty level
4,366
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 29,345 87% -1.2%
Below poverty level 4,366 13% 9.8%

Employment in Webster County

Workforce and job types in Webster County

The job market in Webster County is powered by 17,868 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.2% run their own businesses, 67.3% are employed by private companies, and 12.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
17,868
1.5% year-over-year change
White collar
12,464
Blue collar
5,404
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 12,464 69.8% 2.3%
Blue collar 5,404 30.2% -0.4%
Employer type
Self employees
9.2%
Private companies
67.3%
Governmental workers
12.6%
Not for profit companies
11%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,635 9.2% 2.1%
Private companies 12,026 67.3% 2.9%
Governmental workers 2,248 12.6% -3.7%
Not for profit companies 1,959 11% -1.3%
Unemployment rate
4.8%
31.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Webster County stands at 4.8%, 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 Webster County

How people get around in Webster County

Commuting methods vary: 90.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.4% 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 15,812 90.2% 1.0%
Taxicab 217 1.2% 13.6%
Bus or trolleybus 46 0.3% 318.2%
Motorcycle 2 0% 100.0%
Bicycle 86 0.5% 115.0%
Walk 419 2.4% -18.8%
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 Webster County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50501 28,823 11,899 $66,888 $81,687
50516 586 274 $69,500 $82,369
50518 365 132 $97,857 $118,033
50521 45 18 $0 $0
50523 682 267 $85,781 $92,491
50524 439 183 $104,375 $121,620
50530 1,090 472 $73,250 $90,234
50532 804 358 $65,000 $78,398
50249 1,312 610 $60,761 $79,595
50543 1,420 533 $91,563 $110,513

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FAQs about Webster County demographics 

What is the total population of Webster County?

Webster County has a total population of 36,886 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 Webster County?

The gender ratio in Webster County is as follows:
  • 52.4% males (19,337 residents)
  • 47.6% females (17,549 residents)

What is the median age in Webster County?

The median age in Webster County is 39.7.

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

The age distribution in Webster County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.3% (6,397 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.5% (5,708 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.8% (8,796 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.5% (8,662 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.8% (7,323 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Webster County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Webster County is as follows:
  • White: 86.2% (31,785 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.3% (1,201 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (96 residents)
  • Asian: 1.2% (455 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.9% (2,918 residents)
  • Other: 1.2% (431 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.5% of the population in Webster County.

How many housing units are there in Webster County?

There are 17,082 housing units in Webster County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Webster County has a total of 15,375 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Webster County?

Webster County has a median household income of $68,975, representing a +1.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.2% in Webster County, with a workforce of 17,868 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.8% (12,464 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.2% (5,404 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.2% (1,635 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.3% (12,026 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.6% (2,248 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11% (1,959 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