Butler County, Iowa Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Butler County is located in Iowa with a total population of 14,301. It is the 55th most populous county out of 99 in Iowa.

Age Demographics

The median age in Butler County is 43.7 years. This is 13% higher than the state median of 38.6 years. 10.1% 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 Butler County is $69,651. This is 5% lower than the state median of $73,147. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 11% lower. The poverty rate stands at 10.7%. This is 3% lower than the state poverty rate of 11.0%. The unemployment rate is 3.4%. This is 7% lower than the state rate of 3.6%. The median home value is $156,500. Housing costs are 20% lower than the state median of $195,900. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.2x, Butler County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 80.0% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 12% higher than the state average of 71.5%.

Race & Ethnicity

Butler County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 94.9% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 1.6%. The Black or African American population (0.2%) is well below the state average of 3.8%. The Hispanic or Latino population (1.6%) is well below the state average of 7.0%. The Asian population (1.2%) is well below the state average of 2.4%.

Education

20.4% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 34% 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 93.6%.