Fort Dodge, IA
Population 24,788 · Iowa
About Fort Dodge, IA
Fort Dodge is a mid-sized city in Iowa with a population of 24,788 residents. The median household income is $61,769 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Fort Dodge is 38.2 years.
Housing in Fort Dodge has a median home value of $128,900 and median monthly rent of $764. Of the 11,492 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 6,755 owner-occupied and 3,801 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Fort Dodge is 4.1% and the poverty rate is 14.4%. 20.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 17.9 minutes.
How Fort Dodge Ranks in Iowa
Cost of Living in Fort Dodge, IA
Compared to national averages, Fort Dodge has a median household income of $61,769 (18% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $128,900, which is 47% below the national median. Monthly rent at $764 is 34% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Fort Dodge's income is 9% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 3% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Fort Dodge, IA?
Fort Dodge offers affordable housing with a median home value of $128,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $764/month, and short commute times averaging just 17.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($61,769) that falls below the national average. However, Fort Dodge’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Fort Dodge has a population of 24,788 with a median age of 38.2 years. Compare Fort Dodge with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Fort Dodge
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clinton | 24,425 | $57,493 | $115,400 | Compare |
| Ottumwa | 25,352 | $56,994 | $92,400 | Compare |
| Johnston | 24,196 | $103,430 | $346,200 | Compare |
| Burlington | 23,800 | $55,274 | $115,800 | Compare |
| Muscatine | 23,567 | $59,332 | $146,900 | Compare |
| Coralville | 22,846 | $66,508 | $286,000 | Compare |
| Waukee | 26,974 | $106,728 | $328,200 | Compare |
| Mason City | 27,135 | $62,369 | $130,000 | 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 Fort Dodge
What is the population of Fort Dodge, IA?
The population of Fort Dodge, IA is 24,788 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Fort Dodge?
The median household income in Fort Dodge, IA is $61,769 per year.
What is the median home value in Fort Dodge?
The median home value in Fort Dodge, IA is $128,900.
What is the average rent in Fort Dodge?
The median monthly rent in Fort Dodge, IA is $764.
What is the unemployment rate in Fort Dodge?
The unemployment rate in Fort Dodge, IA is 4.1%.