Early, IA
Population 757 · Iowa
About Early, IA
Early is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 757 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $76,083 per year, which is 1% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 39 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Early features a median home value of $83,500, which is 66% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Early one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $588, 49% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 358 total housing units, 69% are owner-occupied (216 units) and 31% are renter-occupied (97 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Early shows an unemployment rate of 10.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 11.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Early have an average one-way commute time of 20.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.5% of Early 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 8.7% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.3% Asian residents, with 6.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Early, IA
Compared to national averages, Early has a median household income of $76,083 (1% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $83,500, which is 66% below the national median. Monthly rent at $588 is 49% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Early's income is 12% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 37% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Early, IA?
Early offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $76,083, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $83,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $588/month. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 11.8%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 20.2 minutes.
Early has a population of 757 with a median age of 39 years. Compare Early 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 Early
What is the population of Early, IA?
The population of Early, IA is 757 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 Early?
The median household income in Early, IA is $76,083 per year, which is 1% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Early?
The median home value in Early, IA is $83,500, which is 66% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Early?
The median monthly rent in Early, IA is $588, which is 49% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Early?
The unemployment rate in Early, IA is 10.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Early, IA a good place to live?
Early offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 757 and a median age of 39, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Early, IA?
14.5% of residents in Early 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 Early?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Early, IA: median home value is $83,500 (66% below national), median rent is $588/month, and median household income is $76,083. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Early?
The poverty rate in Early, IA is 11.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Early, IA?
Early's population is 8.7% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.3% Asian, and 3.6% two or more races. 6.7% of residents are foreign-born.