Union County, Iowa Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Union County is located in Iowa with a total population of 12,038. It is the 63rd most populous county out of 99 in Iowa. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Union County is 40.6 years. This is 5% higher than the state median of 38.6 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Union County is $56,813. This is 22% lower than the state median of $73,147. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 28% lower. The poverty rate stands at 12.6%. This is 15% higher than the state poverty rate of 11.0%. The unemployment rate is 4.6%. This is 26% higher than the state rate of 3.6%. The median home value is $117,800. Housing costs are 40% lower than the state median of $195,900. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.1x, Union County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 72.1% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied.

Race & Ethnicity

Union County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 92.6% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 3.5%. The Black or African American population (0.5%) is well below the state average of 3.8%. The Hispanic or Latino population (3.5%) is well below the state average of 7.0%.

Education

24.1% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 22% 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 93.0%.