Badger, IA
Population 475 · Iowa
About Badger, IA
Badger is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 475 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $76,875 per year, which is 2% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 41.5 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Badger features a median home value of $136,300, which is 44% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Badger one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $770, 34% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 225 total housing units, 79% are owner-occupied (165 units) and 21% are renter-occupied (45 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Badger shows an unemployment rate of 2.6%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 6.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Badger have an average one-way commute time of 18.4 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
24.2% of Badger 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 2.9% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.3% Asian residents, with 2.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Badger, IA
Compared to national averages, Badger has a median household income of $76,875 (2% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $136,300, which is 44% below the national median. Monthly rent at $770 is 34% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Badger's income is 13% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 3% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Badger, IA?
Badger offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $76,875, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $136,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $770/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.6%, and a low poverty rate of 6.1%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 18.4 minutes.
Badger has a population of 475 with a median age of 41.5 years. Compare Badger with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Badger
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
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 Badger With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Badger
What is the population of Badger, IA?
The population of Badger, IA is 475 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Iowa.
What is the median household income in Badger?
The median household income in Badger, IA is $76,875 per year, which is 2% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Badger?
The median home value in Badger, IA is $136,300, which is 44% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Badger?
The median monthly rent in Badger, IA is $770, which is 34% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Badger?
The unemployment rate in Badger, IA is 2.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Badger, IA a good place to live?
Badger offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 475 and a median age of 41.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Badger, IA?
24.2% of residents in Badger aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Badger?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Badger, IA: median home value is $136,300 (44% below national), median rent is $770/month, and median household income is $76,875. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Badger?
The poverty rate in Badger, IA is 6.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Badger, IA?
Badger's population is 2.9% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.3% Asian, and 0.4% two or more races. 2.9% of residents are foreign-born.