Goose Lake, IA
Population 309 · Iowa
About Goose Lake, IA
Goose Lake is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 309 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $70,625 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 30.8 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 Goose Lake features a median home value of $125,000, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Goose Lake one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 104 total housing units, 95% are owner-occupied (88 units) and 5% are renter-occupied (5 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Goose Lake shows an unemployment rate of 3.5%, 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 Goose Lake have an average one-way commute time of 22.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
22.0% of Goose Lake 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 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 2.9% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Goose Lake, IA
Compared to national averages, Goose Lake has a median household income of $70,625 (6% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $125,000, which is 49% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Goose Lake's income is 4% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 5% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Goose Lake, IA?
Goose Lake offers affordable housing with a median home value of $125,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.5%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 22.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($70,625) that falls below the national average. However, Goose Lake’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Goose Lake has a population of 309 with a median age of 30.8 years. Compare Goose Lake 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 Goose Lake
What is the population of Goose Lake, IA?
The population of Goose Lake, IA is 309 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 Goose Lake?
The median household income in Goose Lake, IA is $70,625 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Goose Lake?
The median home value in Goose Lake, IA is $125,000, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Goose Lake?
The median monthly rent in Goose Lake, IA is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Goose Lake?
The unemployment rate in Goose Lake, IA is 3.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Goose Lake, IA a good place to live?
Goose Lake offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 309 and a median age of 30.8, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Goose Lake, IA?
22.0% of residents in Goose Lake 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 Goose Lake?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Goose Lake, IA: median home value is $125,000 (49% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $70,625. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Goose Lake?
The poverty rate in Goose Lake, 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 Goose Lake, IA?
Goose Lake's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 2.9% Asian, and 1.6% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.