Wapello County, Iowa Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Wapello County is located in Iowa with a total population of 35,265. It is the 20th most populous county out of 99 in Iowa.

Age Demographics

The median age in Wapello County is 39.9 years. This is 3% higher than the state median of 38.6 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Wapello County is $60,034. This is 18% lower than the state median of $73,147. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 24% lower. The poverty rate stands at 16.7%. This is 52% higher than the state poverty rate of 11.0%. The unemployment rate is 3.8%. This is 3% higher than the state rate of 3.6%. The median home value is $112,900. Housing costs are 42% lower than the state median of $195,900. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.9x, Wapello County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 67.4% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 6% lower than the state average of 71.5%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Wapello County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 77.3% of the population. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 12.6%. The Hispanic or Latino population is significantly higher than the state average (12.6% vs 7.0%).

Education

19.4% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 37% 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 87.7%.