Cherokee, IA
Population 5,157 · Iowa
About Cherokee, IA
Cherokee is a small community in Iowa with a population of 5,157 residents. The median household income is $48,693 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Cherokee is 44.4 years.
Housing in Cherokee has a median home value of $119,400 and median monthly rent of $707. Of the 2,368 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 1,461 owner-occupied and 829 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Cherokee is 2.9% and the poverty rate is 26.7%. 18.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 16.2 minutes.
Cost of Living in Cherokee, IA
Compared to national averages, Cherokee has a median household income of $48,693 (35% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $119,400, which is 51% below the national median. Monthly rent at $707 is 39% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Cherokee's income is 28% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 10% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Cherokee, IA?
Cherokee offers affordable housing with a median home value of $119,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $707/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.9%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 16.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($48,693) that falls below the national average. However, Cherokee’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Cherokee has a population of 5,157 with a median age of 44.4 years. Compare Cherokee with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Cherokee
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manchester | 5,144 | $58,578 | $130,500 | Compare |
| Windsor Heights | 5,171 | $89,083 | $251,800 | Compare |
| Glenwood | 5,118 | $69,320 | $193,800 | Compare |
| Sergeant Bluff | 5,090 | $122,610 | $287,600 | Compare |
| Iowa Falls | 5,062 | $53,051 | $106,300 | Compare |
| Tiffin | 5,271 | $106,034 | $315,800 | Compare |
| Clarinda | 5,366 | $50,644 | $112,200 | Compare |
| Vinton | 4,948 | $65,488 | $146,400 | Compare |
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 Cherokee
What is the population of Cherokee, IA?
The population of Cherokee, IA is 5,157 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Cherokee?
The median household income in Cherokee, IA is $48,693 per year.
What is the median home value in Cherokee?
The median home value in Cherokee, IA is $119,400.
What is the average rent in Cherokee?
The median monthly rent in Cherokee, IA is $707.
What is the unemployment rate in Cherokee?
The unemployment rate in Cherokee, IA is 2.9%.