Columbus Junction, IA
Population 2,129 · Iowa
About Columbus Junction, IA
Columbus Junction is a small town located in Iowa with a population of 2,129 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $76,518 per year, which is 2% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.4 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Columbus Junction features a median home value of $114,200, which is 53% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Columbus Junction one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $591, 49% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 761 total housing units, 81% are owner-occupied (565 units) and 19% are renter-occupied (133 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Columbus Junction shows an unemployment rate of 3.3%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 9.5%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Columbus Junction have an average one-way commute time of 25.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
17.1% of Columbus Junction 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 41.3% White, 3.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, and 1.8% Asian residents, with 26.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Columbus Junction, IA
Compared to national averages, Columbus Junction has a median household income of $76,518 (2% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $114,200, which is 53% below the national median. Monthly rent at $591 is 49% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Columbus Junction's income is 13% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 14% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Columbus Junction, IA?
Columbus Junction offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $76,518, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $114,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $591/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.3%, and a low poverty rate of 9.5%, better than the national average.
Columbus Junction has a population of 2,129 with a median age of 34.4 years. Compare Columbus Junction with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Columbus Junction
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lamoni | 2,121 | $52,300 | $107,900 | Compare |
| Sumner | 2,159 | $56,174 | $111,900 | Compare |
| Colfax | 2,089 | $82,878 | $160,500 | Compare |
| La Porte City | 2,170 | $62,750 | $146,900 | Compare |
| Northwood | 2,170 | $64,615 | $124,800 | Compare |
| Toledo | 2,079 | $56,719 | $124,000 | Compare |
| Monroe | 2,074 | $81,488 | $173,500 | Compare |
| Audubon | 2,069 | $41,389 | $92,800 | 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.
Compare Columbus Junction With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Columbus Junction
What is the population of Columbus Junction, IA?
The population of Columbus Junction, IA is 2,129 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Iowa.
What is the median household income in Columbus Junction?
The median household income in Columbus Junction, IA is $76,518 per year, which is 2% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Columbus Junction?
The median home value in Columbus Junction, IA is $114,200, which is 53% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Columbus Junction?
The median monthly rent in Columbus Junction, IA is $591, which is 49% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Columbus Junction?
The unemployment rate in Columbus Junction, IA is 3.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Columbus Junction, IA a good place to live?
Columbus Junction offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 2,129 and a median age of 34.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Columbus Junction, IA?
17.1% of residents in Columbus Junction 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 Columbus Junction?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Columbus Junction, IA: median home value is $114,200 (53% below national), median rent is $591/month, and median household income is $76,518. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Columbus Junction?
The poverty rate in Columbus Junction, IA is 9.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Columbus Junction, IA?
Columbus Junction's population is 41.3% White, 3.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, 1.8% Asian, and 0.8% two or more races. 26.0% of residents are foreign-born.