Black Hawk County, Iowa Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Black Hawk County is located in Iowa with a total population of 130,693. It is the 5th most populous county out of 99 in Iowa. The county encompasses 3 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Black Hawk County is 35.7 years. This is 8% lower than the state median of 38.6 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Black Hawk County is $64,581. This is 12% lower than the state median of $73,147. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 18% lower. The poverty rate stands at 14.7%. This is 34% higher than the state poverty rate of 11.0%. The unemployment rate is 4.8%. This is 33% higher than the state rate of 3.6%. The median home value is $182,400. Housing costs are 7% lower than the state median of $195,900. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.8x, Black Hawk County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 65.3% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 9% lower than the state average of 71.5%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Black Hawk County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 78.8% of the population. Black or African American residents account for 9.5%. The Black or African American population is significantly higher than the state average (9.5% vs 3.8%).

Education

30.1% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 2% 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 93.3%.