Mahaska County, Iowa Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Mahaska County is located in Iowa with a total population of 22,045. It is the 28th most populous county out of 99 in Iowa. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Mahaska County is 39.1 years. This is 1% higher than the state median of 38.6 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Mahaska County is $69,019. This is 6% lower than the state median of $73,147. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 12% lower. The poverty rate stands at 11.8%. This is 8% higher than the state poverty rate of 11.0%. The unemployment rate is 3.3%. This is 9% lower than the state rate of 3.6%. The median home value is $140,900. Housing costs are 28% lower than the state median of $195,900. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.0x, Mahaska County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 67.8% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 5% lower than the state average of 71.5%.

Race & Ethnicity

Mahaska County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 92.2% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 2.4%. The Black or African American population (1.5%) is well below the state average of 3.8%. The Hispanic or Latino population (2.4%) is well below the state average of 7.0%. The Asian population (1.2%) is well below the state average of 2.4%.

Education

23.0% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 25% 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 94.0%.