Birmingham, IA
Population 479 · Iowa
About Birmingham, IA
Birmingham is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 479 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $58,688 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 51.6 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Birmingham features a median home value of $97,300, which is 60% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Birmingham one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $442, 62% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 255 total housing units, 78% are owner-occupied (168 units) and 22% are renter-occupied (47 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Birmingham shows an unemployment rate of 0.4%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 14.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Birmingham have an average one-way commute time of 20.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
9.6% of Birmingham 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 9.8% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 2.1% Asian residents, with 2.5% of the population being foreign-born.
How Birmingham Ranks in Iowa
Cost of Living in Birmingham, IA
Compared to national averages, Birmingham has a median household income of $58,688 (22% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $97,300, which is 60% below the national median. Monthly rent at $442 is 62% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Birmingham's income is 14% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 26% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Birmingham, IA?
Birmingham offers affordable housing with a median home value of $97,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $442/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.4%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 20.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($58,688) that falls below the national average. However, Birmingham’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Birmingham has a population of 479 with a median age of 51.6 years. Compare Birmingham with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Birmingham
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
Demographics
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Economy & Education
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Other Cities in Iowa
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Birmingham
What is the population of Birmingham, IA?
The population of Birmingham, IA is 479 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 Birmingham?
The median household income in Birmingham, IA is $58,688 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Birmingham?
The median home value in Birmingham, IA is $97,300, which is 60% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Birmingham?
The median monthly rent in Birmingham, IA is $442, which is 62% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Birmingham?
The unemployment rate in Birmingham, IA is 0.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Birmingham, IA a good place to live?
Birmingham offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 479 and a median age of 51.6, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Birmingham, IA?
9.6% of residents in Birmingham 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 Birmingham?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Birmingham, IA: median home value is $97,300 (60% below national), median rent is $442/month, and median household income is $58,688. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Birmingham?
The poverty rate in Birmingham, IA is 14.5%, 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 Birmingham, IA?
Birmingham's population is 9.8% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 2.1% Asian, and 0.2% two or more races. 2.5% of residents are foreign-born.