Dayton, IA
Population 789 · Iowa
About Dayton, IA
Dayton is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 789 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $67,396 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 47.2 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 Dayton features a median home value of $106,900, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Dayton one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $542, 53% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 424 total housing units, 70% are owner-occupied (250 units) and 30% are renter-occupied (107 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Dayton shows an unemployment rate of 2.4%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 5.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Dayton have an average one-way commute time of 27 minutes.
Education & Demographics
21.5% of Dayton 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 0.6% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.6% of the population being foreign-born.
How Dayton Ranks in Iowa
Cost of Living in Dayton, IA
Compared to national averages, Dayton has a median household income of $67,396 (10% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $106,900, which is 56% below the national median. Monthly rent at $542 is 53% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Dayton's income is 1% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 19% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Dayton, IA?
Dayton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $106,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $542/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.4%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 5.1%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($67,396) that falls below the national average. However, Dayton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Dayton has a population of 789 with a median age of 47.2 years. Compare Dayton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Dayton
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
Demographics
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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 Dayton
What is the population of Dayton, IA?
The population of Dayton, IA is 789 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 Dayton?
The median household income in Dayton, IA is $67,396 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Dayton?
The median home value in Dayton, IA is $106,900, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Dayton?
The median monthly rent in Dayton, IA is $542, which is 53% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Dayton?
The unemployment rate in Dayton, IA is 2.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Dayton, IA a good place to live?
Dayton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 789 and a median age of 47.2, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Dayton, IA?
21.5% of residents in Dayton 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 Dayton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Dayton, IA: median home value is $106,900 (56% below national), median rent is $542/month, and median household income is $67,396. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Dayton?
The poverty rate in Dayton, IA is 5.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Dayton, IA?
Dayton's population is 0.6% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 1.4% two or more races. 0.6% of residents are foreign-born.