Earlham, IA
Population 1,406 · Iowa
About Earlham, IA
Earlham is a small town located in Iowa with a population of 1,406 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $104,464 per year, which is 39% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 43.9 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 Earlham features a median home value of $248,400, which is 1% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Earlham in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $779, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 589 total housing units, 80% are owner-occupied (445 units) and 20% are renter-occupied (110 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Earlham shows an unemployment rate of 0.9%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 4.6%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Earlham have an average one-way commute time of 26.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
28.9% of Earlham residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 4.0% White, 2.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 3.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Earlham, IA
Compared to national averages, Earlham has a median household income of $104,464 (39% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $248,400, which is 1% above the national median. Monthly rent at $779 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Earlham's income is 54% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 88% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Earlham, IA?
Earlham offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $104,464, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $779/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.9%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 4.6%, better than the national average.
Earlham has a population of 1,406 with a median age of 43.9 years. Compare Earlham with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Earlham
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coon Rapids | 1,403 | $64,338 | $129,300 | Compare |
| Malvern | 1,415 | $82,027 | $173,900 | Compare |
| Strawberry Point | 1,415 | $58,352 | $115,200 | Compare |
| Nora Springs | 1,394 | $72,083 | $126,300 | Compare |
| Woodbine | 1,418 | $54,167 | $141,900 | Compare |
| Greene | 1,390 | $54,298 | $125,200 | Compare |
| Bedford | 1,389 | $57,031 | $88,900 | Compare |
| Kingsley | 1,427 | $73,103 | $146,200 | 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 Earlham With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Earlham
What is the population of Earlham, IA?
The population of Earlham, IA is 1,406 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 Earlham?
The median household income in Earlham, IA is $104,464 per year, which is 39% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Earlham?
The median home value in Earlham, IA is $248,400, which is 1% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Earlham?
The median monthly rent in Earlham, IA is $779, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Earlham?
The unemployment rate in Earlham, IA is 0.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Earlham, IA a good place to live?
Earlham offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 1,406 and a median age of 43.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Earlham, IA?
28.9% of residents in Earlham 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 Earlham?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Earlham, IA: median home value is $248,400 (1% above national), median rent is $779/month, and median household income is $104,464. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Earlham?
The poverty rate in Earlham, IA is 4.6%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Earlham, IA?
Earlham's population is 4.0% White, 2.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 2.6% two or more races. 3.0% of residents are foreign-born.