Linn County, Iowa Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Linn County is located in Iowa with a total population of 229,463. It is the 2nd most populous county out of 99 in Iowa. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Linn County is 38.5 years. This is about average than the state median of 38.6 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Linn County is $76,421. This is 4% higher than the state median of $73,147. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 3% lower. The poverty rate stands at 9.9%. This is 10% lower than the state poverty rate of 11.0%. The unemployment rate is 3.7%. This is 1% higher than the state rate of 3.6%. The median home value is $204,400. Housing costs are 4% higher than the state median of $195,900. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.7x, Linn 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

The largest racial or ethnic group in Linn County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 83.0% of the population. Black or African American residents account for 5.7%. The Black or African American population is significantly higher than the state average (5.7% vs 3.8%).

Education

34.8% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This places Linn County in the top 10% of all cities in the state for educational attainment. This is 13% higher 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 95.3%.