Benton County, Iowa Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Benton County is located in Iowa with a total population of 25,698. It is the 25th most populous county out of 99 in Iowa. The county encompasses 3 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Benton County is 43.3 years. This is 12% higher than the state median of 38.6 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Benton County is $84,742. This is 16% higher than the state median of $73,147. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 8% higher. The poverty rate stands at 7.9%. This is 28% lower than the state poverty rate of 11.0%. The unemployment rate is 2.3%. This is 36% lower than the state rate of 3.6%. The median home value is $198,400. Housing costs are 1% higher than the state median of $195,900. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.3x, Benton County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 84.3% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 18% higher than the state average of 71.5%.

Race & Ethnicity

Benton County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 94.7% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 1.9%. The Black or African American population (0.4%) is well below the state average of 3.8%. The Hispanic or Latino population (1.9%) is well below the state average of 7.0%. The Asian population (0.2%) is well below the state average of 2.4%.

Education

24.9% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 19% 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 94.7%.