Shelby County, Iowa Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Shelby County is located in Iowa with a total population of 11,757. It is the 65th most populous county out of 99 in Iowa. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Shelby County is 45.1 years. This is 17% higher than the state median of 38.6 years. 11.0% 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 Shelby County is $67,690. This is 7% 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 8.5%. This is 22% lower 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 $156,200. Housing costs are 20% lower than the state median of $195,900. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.3x, Shelby County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 75.8% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 6% higher than the state average of 71.5%.

Race & Ethnicity

Shelby County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 92.1% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 3.7%. The Black or African American population (0.5%) is well below the state average of 3.8%.

Education

23.3% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 24% 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 95.3%.