Osceola County, Iowa Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Osceola County is located in Iowa with a total population of 6,114. It is the 95th most populous county out of 99 in Iowa.

Age Demographics

The median age in Osceola County is 43.5 years. This is 13% higher than the state median of 38.6 years. 10.4% 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 Osceola County is $69,138. This is 5% 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 16.3%. This is 49% higher than the state poverty rate of 11.0%. The unemployment rate is 4.9%. This is 35% higher than the state rate of 3.6%. The median home value is $123,800. Housing costs are 37% lower than the state median of $195,900. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.8x, Osceola County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 78.0% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 9% higher than the state average of 71.5%.

Race & Ethnicity

Osceola County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 85.0% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 10.1%. The Black or African American population (0.8%) is well below the state average of 3.8%. The Asian population (0.9%) is well below the state average of 2.4%.

Education

15.3% 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 50% 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 85.6%.