Emmetsburg, IA
Population 3,651 · Iowa
About Emmetsburg, IA
Emmetsburg is a small community in Iowa with a population of 3,651 residents. The median household income is $57,353 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Emmetsburg is 45 years.
Housing in Emmetsburg has a median home value of $114,600 and median monthly rent of $589. Of the 1,824 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 1,138 owner-occupied and 490 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Emmetsburg is 3.3% and the poverty rate is 17.3%. 16.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 14.1 minutes.
Cost of Living in Emmetsburg, IA
Compared to national averages, Emmetsburg has a median household income of $57,353 (24% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $114,600, which is 53% below the national median. Monthly rent at $589 is 49% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Emmetsburg's income is 16% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 13% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Emmetsburg, IA?
Emmetsburg offers affordable housing with a median home value of $114,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $589/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.3%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 14.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($57,353) that falls below the national average. However, Emmetsburg’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Emmetsburg has a population of 3,651 with a median age of 45 years. Compare Emmetsburg with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Emmetsburg
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Albia | 3,688 | $67,791 | $132,500 | Compare |
| Eagle Grove | 3,588 | $58,458 | $95,100 | Compare |
| Osage | 3,578 | $62,309 | $141,800 | Compare |
| Saylorville | 3,559 | $80,250 | $287,700 | Compare |
| Carter Lake | 3,773 | $75,037 | $161,200 | Compare |
| West Liberty | 3,795 | $66,132 | $169,500 | Compare |
| Waukon | 3,796 | $56,250 | $133,700 | Compare |
| New Hampton | 3,462 | $61,491 | $159,200 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Emmetsburg
What is the population of Emmetsburg, IA?
The population of Emmetsburg, IA is 3,651 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Emmetsburg?
The median household income in Emmetsburg, IA is $57,353 per year.
What is the median home value in Emmetsburg?
The median home value in Emmetsburg, IA is $114,600.
What is the average rent in Emmetsburg?
The median monthly rent in Emmetsburg, IA is $589.
What is the unemployment rate in Emmetsburg?
The unemployment rate in Emmetsburg, IA is 3.3%.