Bristow, IA
Population 173 · Iowa
About Bristow, IA
Bristow is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 173 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $0 per year, which is 100% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 44 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 Bristow features a median home value of $54,400, which is 78% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Bristow one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $375, 68% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 99 total housing units, 85% are owner-occupied (68 units) and 15% are renter-occupied (12 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Bristow shows an unemployment rate of 1.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 18.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Bristow have an average one-way commute time of 21.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
3.7% of Bristow 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 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Bristow Ranks in Iowa
Cost of Living in Bristow, IA
Compared to national averages, Bristow has a median household income of $0 (100% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $54,400, which is 78% below the national median. Monthly rent at $375 is 68% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Bristow's income is 100% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 59% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Bristow, IA?
Bristow offers affordable housing with a median home value of $54,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $375/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.0%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 21.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($0) that falls below the national average. However, Bristow’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Bristow has a population of 173 with a median age of 44 years. Compare Bristow with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Bristow
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 Bristow With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Bristow
What is the population of Bristow, IA?
The population of Bristow, IA is 173 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 Bristow?
The median household income in Bristow, IA is $0 per year, which is 100% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Bristow?
The median home value in Bristow, IA is $54,400, which is 78% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Bristow?
The median monthly rent in Bristow, IA is $375, which is 68% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Bristow?
The unemployment rate in Bristow, IA is 1.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Bristow, IA a good place to live?
Bristow offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 173 and a median age of 44, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Bristow, IA?
3.7% of residents in Bristow 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 Bristow?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Bristow, IA: median home value is $54,400 (78% below national), median rent is $375/month, and median household income is $0. The home-value-to-income ratio is Infinityx, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Bristow?
The poverty rate in Bristow, IA is 18.5%, 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 Bristow, IA?
Bristow's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.