Bayard, IA
Population 399 · Iowa
About Bayard, IA
Bayard is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 399 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $43,750 per year, which is 42% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 39.1 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Bayard features a median home value of $57,700, which is 76% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Bayard one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $917, 21% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 207 total housing units, 78% are owner-occupied (139 units) and 22% are renter-occupied (39 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Bayard shows an unemployment rate of 4.1%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 31.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Bayard have an average one-way commute time of 31.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
3.3% of Bayard residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 2.8% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Bayard, IA
Compared to national averages, Bayard has a median household income of $43,750 (42% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $57,700, which is 76% below the national median. Monthly rent at $917 is 21% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Bayard's income is 36% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 56% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Bayard, IA?
Bayard offers affordable housing with a median home value of $57,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $917/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($43,750) that falls below the national average. However, Bayard’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Bayard has a population of 399 with a median age of 39.1 years. Compare Bayard with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
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Demographics
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Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Bayard
What is the population of Bayard, IA?
The population of Bayard, IA is 399 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 Bayard?
The median household income in Bayard, IA is $43,750 per year, which is 42% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Bayard?
The median home value in Bayard, IA is $57,700, which is 76% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Bayard?
The median monthly rent in Bayard, IA is $917, which is 21% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Bayard?
The unemployment rate in Bayard, IA is 4.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Bayard, IA a good place to live?
Bayard offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 399 and a median age of 39.1, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Bayard, IA?
3.3% of residents in Bayard 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 Bayard?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Bayard, IA: median home value is $57,700 (76% below national), median rent is $917/month, and median household income is $43,750. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Bayard?
The poverty rate in Bayard, IA is 31.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Bayard, IA?
Bayard's population is 2.8% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 2.5% two or more races. 0.5% of residents are foreign-born.