Dunlap, IA
Population 1,318 · Iowa
About Dunlap, IA
Dunlap is a small town located in Iowa with a population of 1,318 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $54,609 per year, which is 27% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 49.3 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 Dunlap features a median home value of $115,600, which is 53% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Dunlap one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $934, 20% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 638 total housing units, 69% are owner-occupied (400 units) and 31% are renter-occupied (176 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Dunlap shows an unemployment rate of 5.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 5.2%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Dunlap have an average one-way commute time of 23.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
16.0% of Dunlap 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 1.6% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Dunlap, IA
Compared to national averages, Dunlap has a median household income of $54,609 (27% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $115,600, which is 53% below the national median. Monthly rent at $934 is 20% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Dunlap's income is 20% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 13% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Dunlap, IA?
Dunlap offers affordable housing with a median home value of $115,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $934/month, and a low poverty rate of 5.2%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 23.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($54,609) that falls below the national average. However, Dunlap’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Dunlap has a population of 1,318 with a median age of 49.3 years. Compare Dunlap with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Dunlap
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Walford | 1,318 | $116,477 | $274,500 | Compare |
| Gilbert | 1,300 | $112,250 | $267,200 | Compare |
| Walnut | 1,339 | $65,278 | $97,900 | Compare |
| Manly | 1,288 | $67,083 | $110,900 | Compare |
| Alton | 1,350 | $86,136 | $204,600 | Compare |
| Lone Tree | 1,285 | $80,294 | $170,700 | Compare |
| Logan | 1,362 | $79,167 | $144,400 | Compare |
| Avoca | 1,369 | $70,552 | $165,700 | 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 Dunlap With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Dunlap
What is the population of Dunlap, IA?
The population of Dunlap, IA is 1,318 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 Dunlap?
The median household income in Dunlap, IA is $54,609 per year, which is 27% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Dunlap?
The median home value in Dunlap, IA is $115,600, which is 53% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Dunlap?
The median monthly rent in Dunlap, IA is $934, which is 20% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Dunlap?
The unemployment rate in Dunlap, IA is 5.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Dunlap, IA a good place to live?
Dunlap offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,318 and a median age of 49.3, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Dunlap, IA?
16.0% of residents in Dunlap 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 Dunlap?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Dunlap, IA: median home value is $115,600 (53% below national), median rent is $934/month, and median household income is $54,609. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Dunlap?
The poverty rate in Dunlap, IA is 5.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Dunlap, IA?
Dunlap's population is 1.6% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.5% two or more races. 0.5% of residents are foreign-born.