Clayton County, Iowa Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Clayton County is located in Iowa with a total population of 17,069. It is the 41st most populous county out of 99 in Iowa.

Age Demographics

The median age in Clayton County is 46.4 years. This is 20% higher than the state median of 38.6 years. 10.5% 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 Clayton County is $62,326. This is 15% lower than the state median of $73,147. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 21% lower. The poverty rate stands at 13.6%. This is 24% higher than the state poverty rate of 11.0%. The unemployment rate is 2.6%. This is 29% lower than the state rate of 3.6%. The median home value is $155,700. Housing costs are 21% lower than the state median of $195,900. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.5x, Clayton County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 76.6% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 7% higher than the state average of 71.5%.

Race & Ethnicity

Clayton County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 95.2% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 2.2%. The Black or African American population (0.6%) is well below the state average of 3.8%. The Hispanic or Latino population (2.2%) is well below the state average of 7.0%. The Asian population (0.3%) is well below the state average of 2.4%.

Education

15.7% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is among the lowest rates in the state, which may correlate with employment and income patterns. This is 49% 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 90.8%.