Defiance, IA
Population 207 · Iowa
About Defiance, IA
Defiance is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 207 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $51,458 per year, which is 32% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 48.5 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 Defiance features a median home value of $84,300, which is 66% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Defiance one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 109 total housing units, 85% are owner-occupied (88 units) and 15% are renter-occupied (15 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Defiance shows an unemployment rate of 1.7%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 15.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Defiance have an average one-way commute time of 22.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
7.3% of Defiance 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 6.3% White, 3.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 2.9% Asian residents, with 3.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Defiance, IA
Compared to national averages, Defiance has a median household income of $51,458 (32% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $84,300, which is 66% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Defiance's income is 24% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 36% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Defiance, IA?
Defiance offers affordable housing with a median home value of $84,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.7%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 22.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($51,458) that falls below the national average. However, Defiance’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Defiance has a population of 207 with a median age of 48.5 years. Compare Defiance with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
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Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Defiance
What is the population of Defiance, IA?
The population of Defiance, IA is 207 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 Defiance?
The median household income in Defiance, IA is $51,458 per year, which is 32% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Defiance?
The median home value in Defiance, IA is $84,300, which is 66% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Defiance?
The median monthly rent in Defiance, IA is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Defiance?
The unemployment rate in Defiance, IA is 1.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Defiance, IA a good place to live?
Defiance offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 207 and a median age of 48.5, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Defiance, IA?
7.3% of residents in Defiance 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 Defiance?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Defiance, IA: median home value is $84,300 (66% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $51,458. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Defiance?
The poverty rate in Defiance, IA is 15.9%, 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 Defiance, IA?
Defiance's population is 6.3% White, 3.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 2.9% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 3.9% of residents are foreign-born.