Grafton, IA
Population 233 · Iowa
About Grafton, IA
Grafton is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 233 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $52,188 per year, which is 31% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 51.2 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 Grafton features a median home value of $94,600, which is 61% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Grafton one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $655, 44% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 136 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (89 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (42 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Grafton shows an unemployment rate of 5.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 11.6%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Grafton have an average one-way commute time of 23.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.4% of Grafton 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 3.4% Asian residents, with 0.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Grafton, IA
Compared to national averages, Grafton has a median household income of $52,188 (31% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $94,600, which is 61% below the national median. Monthly rent at $655 is 44% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Grafton's income is 23% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 28% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Grafton, IA?
Grafton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $94,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $655/month, and a low poverty rate of 11.6%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 23.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($52,188) that falls below the national average. However, Grafton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Grafton has a population of 233 with a median age of 51.2 years. Compare Grafton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Grafton
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maharishi Vedic City | 233 | $62,813 | $328,600 | Compare |
| Burr Oak | 234 | $62,813 | $130,900 | Compare |
| Fredonia | 232 | $51,250 | $86,400 | Compare |
| Hancock | 232 | $79,375 | $98,300 | Compare |
| Steamboat Rock | 235 | $44,583 | $78,300 | Compare |
| Alexander | 230 | $78,750 | $54,400 | Compare |
| Luxemburg | 230 | $77,292 | $168,300 | Compare |
| Crystal Lake | 229 | $82,500 | $86,000 | 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.
Compare Grafton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Grafton
What is the population of Grafton, IA?
The population of Grafton, IA is 233 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 Grafton?
The median household income in Grafton, IA is $52,188 per year, which is 31% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Grafton?
The median home value in Grafton, IA is $94,600, which is 61% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Grafton?
The median monthly rent in Grafton, IA is $655, which is 44% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Grafton?
The unemployment rate in Grafton, IA is 5.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Grafton, IA a good place to live?
Grafton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 233 and a median age of 51.2, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Grafton, IA?
14.4% of residents in Grafton 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 Grafton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Grafton, IA: median home value is $94,600 (61% below national), median rent is $655/month, and median household income is $52,188. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Grafton?
The poverty rate in Grafton, IA is 11.6%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Grafton, IA?
Grafton's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 3.4% Asian, and 0.9% two or more races. 0.9% of residents are foreign-born.