Hardin County, Iowa Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Hardin County is located in Iowa with a total population of 16,729. It is the 44th most populous county out of 99 in Iowa. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Hardin County is 45.2 years. This is 17% higher than the state median of 38.6 years. 10.3% 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 Hardin County is $64,906. This is 11% lower than the state median of $73,147. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 17% lower. The poverty rate stands at 8.6%. This is 22% lower than the state poverty rate of 11.0%. The unemployment rate is 3.7%. This is 2% higher than the state rate of 3.6%. The median home value is $113,000. Housing costs are 42% lower than the state median of $195,900. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.7x, Hardin County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 73.3% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 2% higher than the state average of 71.5%.

Race & Ethnicity

Hardin County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 90.7% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 5.1%. The Black or African American population (1.0%) is well below the state average of 3.8%. The Asian population (0.9%) is well below the state average of 2.4%.

Education

21.2% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 31% 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%.