Calhoun County, Iowa Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Calhoun County is located in Iowa with a total population of 9,858. It is the 75th most populous county out of 99 in Iowa. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Calhoun County is 42.7 years. This is 11% higher than the state median of 38.6 years. 10.4% 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 Calhoun County is $66,875. 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 8.6%. This is 22% lower than the state poverty rate of 11.0%. The unemployment rate is 2.8%. This is 22% lower than the state rate of 3.6%. The median home value is $114,400. Housing costs are 42% lower than the state median of $195,900. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.7x, Calhoun County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 80.9% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 13% higher than the state average of 71.5%.

Race & Ethnicity

Calhoun County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 91.6% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 2.5%. The Black or African American population (1.5%) is well below the state average of 3.8%. The Hispanic or Latino population (2.5%) is well below the state average of 7.0%. The Asian population (0.2%) is well below the state average of 2.4%.

Education

21.5% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 30% 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 93.7%.