Brighton, IA
Population 655 · Iowa
About Brighton, IA
Brighton is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 655 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $55,000 per year, which is 27% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 37.9 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Brighton features a median home value of $87,700, which is 64% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Brighton one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $698, 40% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 253 total housing units, 69% are owner-occupied (165 units) and 31% are renter-occupied (75 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Brighton shows an unemployment rate of 4.9%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 23.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Brighton have an average one-way commute time of 27 minutes.
Education & Demographics
6.5% of Brighton 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 1.5% White, 4.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.1% Asian residents, with 1.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Brighton, IA
Compared to national averages, Brighton has a median household income of $55,000 (27% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $87,700, which is 64% below the national median. Monthly rent at $698 is 40% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Brighton's income is 19% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 34% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Brighton, IA?
Brighton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $87,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $698/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($55,000) that falls below the national average. However, Brighton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Brighton has a population of 655 with a median age of 37.9 years. Compare Brighton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Brighton
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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Brighton
What is the population of Brighton, IA?
The population of Brighton, IA is 655 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 Brighton?
The median household income in Brighton, IA is $55,000 per year, which is 27% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Brighton?
The median home value in Brighton, IA is $87,700, which is 64% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Brighton?
The median monthly rent in Brighton, IA is $698, which is 40% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Brighton?
The unemployment rate in Brighton, IA is 4.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Brighton, IA a good place to live?
Brighton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 655 and a median age of 37.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Brighton, IA?
6.5% of residents in Brighton 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 Brighton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Brighton, IA: median home value is $87,700 (64% below national), median rent is $698/month, and median household income is $55,000. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Brighton?
The poverty rate in Brighton, IA is 23.7%, 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 Brighton, IA?
Brighton's population is 1.5% White, 4.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.1% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.2% of residents are foreign-born.