Appanoose County, Iowa Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Appanoose County is located in Iowa with a total population of 12,242. It is the 61st most populous county out of 99 in Iowa. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Appanoose County is 45.5 years. This is 18% higher than the state median of 38.6 years. 10.2% of residents are 75 or older, suggesting a significant retirement-age population with implications for healthcare services and senior housing.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Appanoose County is $51,146. This is 30% lower than the state median of $73,147. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 35% lower. The poverty rate stands at 20.4%. This is 86% higher than the state poverty rate of 11.0%. With more than one in five residents living below the poverty line, economic hardship is a significant challenge for the community. The unemployment rate is 6.9%. This is 91% higher than the state rate of 3.6%. The median home value is $119,800. Housing costs are 39% lower than the state median of $195,900. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.3x, Appanoose County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 69.1% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 3% lower than the state average of 71.5%.

Race & Ethnicity

Appanoose County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 94.2% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 1.7%. The Black or African American population (1.0%) is well below the state average of 3.8%. The Hispanic or Latino population (1.7%) is well below the state average of 7.0%. The Asian population (0.4%) is well below the state average of 2.4%.

Education

19.3% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 37% lower than the state rate of 30.9%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 89.7%.