Adel, IA
Population 6,259 · Iowa
About Adel, IA
Adel is a small town located in Iowa with a population of 6,259 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $96,905 per year, which is 29% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 36.8 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Adel features a median home value of $320,500, which is 31% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Adel in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $842, 28% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,376 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (1,562 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (744 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Adel shows an unemployment rate of 3.4%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 9.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Adel have an average one-way commute time of 21.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
43.3% of Adel residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 4.6% White, 2.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.4% Asian residents, with 3.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Adel, IA
Compared to national averages, Adel has a median household income of $96,905 (29% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $320,500, which is 31% above the national median. Monthly rent at $842 is 28% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Adel's income is 43% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 142% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Adel, IA?
Adel offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $96,905, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $842/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.4%. Additionally, the city features a well-educated community where 43.3% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 9.1%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 21.3 minutes.
Adel has a population of 6,259 with a median age of 36.8 years. Compare Adel with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Adel
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Orange City | 6,312 | $81,667 | $245,300 | Compare |
| Independence | 6,149 | $72,250 | $156,900 | Compare |
| Maquoketa | 6,105 | $56,039 | $126,800 | Compare |
| Asbury | 5,949 | $130,071 | $312,400 | Compare |
| Oelwein | 5,878 | $49,821 | $96,800 | Compare |
| Estherville | 5,865 | $54,624 | $96,300 | Compare |
| Polk City | 5,833 | $163,000 | $385,000 | Compare |
| Eldridge | 6,743 | $101,089 | $329,400 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Iowa
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Adel With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Adel
What is the population of Adel, IA?
The population of Adel, IA is 6,259 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Iowa.
What is the median household income in Adel?
The median household income in Adel, IA is $96,905 per year, which is 29% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Adel?
The median home value in Adel, IA is $320,500, which is 31% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Adel?
The median monthly rent in Adel, IA is $842, which is 28% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Adel?
The unemployment rate in Adel, IA is 3.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Adel, IA a good place to live?
Adel offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 6,259 and a median age of 36.8, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Adel, IA?
43.3% of residents in Adel aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Adel?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Adel, IA: median home value is $320,500 (31% above national), median rent is $842/month, and median household income is $96,905. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Adel?
The poverty rate in Adel, IA is 9.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Adel, IA?
Adel's population is 4.6% White, 2.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.4% Asian, and 0.7% two or more races. 3.5% of residents are foreign-born.