Howard County, Iowa Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Howard County is located in Iowa with a total population of 9,459. It is the 79th most populous county out of 99 in Iowa.

Age Demographics

The median age in Howard County is 39.3 years. This is 2% higher than the state median of 38.6 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Howard County is $67,336. This is 8% lower than the state median of $73,147. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 14% lower. The poverty rate stands at 8.4%. This is 24% lower than the state poverty rate of 11.0%. The unemployment rate is 1.7%. This is 55% lower than the state rate of 3.6%. The median home value is $133,900. Housing costs are 32% lower than the state median of $195,900. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.0x, Howard 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

Howard County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 93.6% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 3.0%. The Black or African American population (0.1%) is well below the state average of 3.8%. The Hispanic or Latino population (3.0%) is well below the state average of 7.0%. The Asian population (0.4%) is well below the state average of 2.4%.

Education

18.7% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 39% 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 91.8%.