Emerson, IA
Population 547 · Iowa
About Emerson, IA
Emerson is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 547 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $47,426 per year, which is 37% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 45.1 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 Emerson features a median home value of $113,600, which is 54% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Emerson one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $913, 21% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 271 total housing units, 80% are owner-occupied (187 units) and 20% are renter-occupied (46 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Emerson shows an unemployment rate of 6.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 16.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Emerson have an average one-way commute time of 26.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
10.5% of Emerson 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 0.4% White, 6.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.9% Asian residents, with 2.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Emerson, IA
Compared to national averages, Emerson has a median household income of $47,426 (37% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $113,600, which is 54% below the national median. Monthly rent at $913 is 21% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Emerson's income is 30% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 14% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Emerson, IA?
Emerson offers affordable housing with a median home value of $113,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $913/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($47,426) that falls below the national average. However, Emerson’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Emerson has a population of 547 with a median age of 45.1 years. Compare Emerson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
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Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
Demographics
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Economy & Education
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Other Cities in Iowa
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Emerson
What is the population of Emerson, IA?
The population of Emerson, IA is 547 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 Emerson?
The median household income in Emerson, IA is $47,426 per year, which is 37% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Emerson?
The median home value in Emerson, IA is $113,600, which is 54% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Emerson?
The median monthly rent in Emerson, IA is $913, which is 21% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Emerson?
The unemployment rate in Emerson, IA is 6.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Emerson, IA a good place to live?
Emerson offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 547 and a median age of 45.1, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Emerson, IA?
10.5% of residents in Emerson 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 Emerson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Emerson, IA: median home value is $113,600 (54% below national), median rent is $913/month, and median household income is $47,426. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Emerson?
The poverty rate in Emerson, IA is 16.3%, 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 Emerson, IA?
Emerson's population is 0.4% White, 6.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.9% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 2.0% of residents are foreign-born.