Earling, IA
Population 466 · Iowa
About Earling, IA
Earling is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 466 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $44,375 per year, which is 41% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 41.8 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Earling features a median home value of $117,600, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Earling one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $731, 37% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 221 total housing units, 71% are owner-occupied (153 units) and 29% are renter-occupied (62 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Earling shows an unemployment rate of 6.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 8.9%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Earling have an average one-way commute time of 22.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
27.4% of Earling 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 6.0% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 1.1% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Earling, IA
Compared to national averages, Earling has a median household income of $44,375 (41% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $117,600, which is 52% below the national median. Monthly rent at $731 is 37% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Earling's income is 35% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 11% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Earling, IA?
Earling offers affordable housing with a median home value of $117,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $731/month, and a low poverty rate of 8.9%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 22.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($44,375) that falls below the national average. However, Earling’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Earling has a population of 466 with a median age of 41.8 years. Compare Earling with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Earling
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
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 Earling With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Earling
What is the population of Earling, IA?
The population of Earling, IA is 466 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 Earling?
The median household income in Earling, IA is $44,375 per year, which is 41% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Earling?
The median home value in Earling, IA is $117,600, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Earling?
The median monthly rent in Earling, IA is $731, which is 37% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Earling?
The unemployment rate in Earling, IA is 6.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Earling, IA a good place to live?
Earling offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 466 and a median age of 41.8, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Earling, IA?
27.4% of residents in Earling 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 Earling?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Earling, IA: median home value is $117,600 (52% below national), median rent is $731/month, and median household income is $44,375. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Earling?
The poverty rate in Earling, IA is 8.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Earling, IA?
Earling's population is 6.0% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 1.1% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 1.7% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.