Fenton, IA
Population 293 · Iowa
About Fenton, IA
Fenton is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 293 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $53,125 per year, which is 29% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 55.2 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 Fenton features a median home value of $52,400, which is 79% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Fenton one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $710, 39% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 178 total housing units, 93% are owner-occupied (134 units) and 7% are renter-occupied (10 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Fenton shows an unemployment rate of 14.4%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 11.9%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Fenton have an average one-way commute time of 25.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
20.6% of Fenton 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 0.7% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Fenton, IA
Compared to national averages, Fenton has a median household income of $53,125 (29% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $52,400, which is 79% below the national median. Monthly rent at $710 is 39% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Fenton's income is 22% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 60% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Fenton, IA?
Fenton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $52,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $710/month, and a low poverty rate of 11.9%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($53,125) that falls below the national average. However, Fenton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Fenton has a population of 293 with a median age of 55.2 years. Compare Fenton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Fenton
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 Fenton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Fenton
What is the population of Fenton, IA?
The population of Fenton, IA is 293 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 Fenton?
The median household income in Fenton, IA is $53,125 per year, which is 29% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Fenton?
The median home value in Fenton, IA is $52,400, which is 79% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Fenton?
The median monthly rent in Fenton, IA is $710, which is 39% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Fenton?
The unemployment rate in Fenton, IA is 14.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Fenton, IA a good place to live?
Fenton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 293 and a median age of 55.2, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Fenton, IA?
20.6% of residents in Fenton 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 Fenton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Fenton, IA: median home value is $52,400 (79% below national), median rent is $710/month, and median household income is $53,125. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Fenton?
The poverty rate in Fenton, IA is 11.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Fenton, IA?
Fenton's population is 0.7% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 6.5% two or more races. 0.3% of residents are foreign-born.