Clay County, Iowa Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Clay County is located in Iowa with a total population of 16,446. It is the 46th most populous county out of 99 in Iowa. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Clay County is 41.8 years. This is 8% higher than the state median of 38.6 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Clay County is $64,082. 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 11.5%. This is 4% higher than the state poverty rate of 11.0%. The unemployment rate is 4.0%. This is 9% higher than the state rate of 3.6%. The median home value is $171,500. Housing costs are 12% lower than the state median of $195,900. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.7x, Clay County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 72.7% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 2% higher than the state average of 71.5%.

Race & Ethnicity

Clay County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 91.7% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 4.5%. The Black or African American population (0.5%) is well below the state average of 3.8%. The Asian population (0.3%) is well below the state average of 2.4%.

Education

26.0% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 16% 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 94.9%.