Galva, IA
Population 432 · Iowa
About Galva, IA
Galva is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 432 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $70,714 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 32.4 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Galva features a median home value of $80,700, which is 67% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Galva one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $675, 42% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 168 total housing units, 78% are owner-occupied (111 units) and 22% are renter-occupied (31 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Galva shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 20.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Galva have an average one-way commute time of 18.5 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
12.6% of Galva 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 7.4% White, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.5% Asian residents, with 3.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Galva, IA
Compared to national averages, Galva has a median household income of $70,714 (6% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $80,700, which is 67% below the national median. Monthly rent at $675 is 42% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Galva's income is 4% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 39% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Galva, IA?
Galva offers affordable housing with a median home value of $80,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $675/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 18.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($70,714) that falls below the national average. However, Galva’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Galva has a population of 432 with a median age of 32.4 years. Compare Galva 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 Galva
What is the population of Galva, IA?
The population of Galva, IA is 432 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 Galva?
The median household income in Galva, IA is $70,714 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Galva?
The median home value in Galva, IA is $80,700, which is 67% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Galva?
The median monthly rent in Galva, IA is $675, which is 42% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Galva?
The unemployment rate in Galva, IA is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Galva, IA a good place to live?
Galva offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 432 and a median age of 32.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Galva, IA?
12.6% of residents in Galva 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 Galva?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Galva, IA: median home value is $80,700 (67% below national), median rent is $675/month, and median household income is $70,714. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Galva?
The poverty rate in Galva, IA is 20.6%, 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 Galva, IA?
Galva's population is 7.4% White, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.5% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 3.0% of residents are foreign-born.