Buena Vista County, Iowa Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Buena Vista County is located in Iowa with a total population of 20,684. It is the 30th most populous county out of 99 in Iowa. The county encompasses 2 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Buena Vista 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 Buena Vista County is $66,564. This is 9% lower than the state median of $73,147. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 15% lower. The poverty rate stands at 8.2%. This is 25% lower than the state poverty rate of 11.0%. The unemployment rate is 5.0%. This is 38% higher than the state rate of 3.6%. The median home value is $146,900. Housing costs are 25% lower than the state median of $195,900. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.2x, Buena Vista County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 72.5% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 1% higher than the state average of 71.5%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Buena Vista County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 53.5% of the population. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 28.6%. The Hispanic or Latino population is significantly higher than the state average (28.6% vs 7.0%). The Asian population is significantly higher than the state average (10.0% vs 2.4%).

Education

22.1% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 28% 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 80.5%.