Harlan, IA
Population 4,896 · Iowa
About Harlan, IA
Harlan is a small community in Iowa with a population of 4,896 residents. The median household income is $54,923 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Harlan is 48.2 years.
Housing in Harlan has a median home value of $137,500 and median monthly rent of $856. Of the 2,304 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 1,445 owner-occupied and 670 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Harlan is 6.2% and the poverty rate is 10.9%. 21.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 14.1 minutes.
Cost of Living in Harlan, IA
Compared to national averages, Harlan has a median household income of $54,923 (27% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $137,500, which is 44% below the national median. Monthly rent at $856 is 26% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Harlan's income is 19% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 4% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Harlan, IA?
Harlan offers affordable housing with a median home value of $137,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $856/month, and a low poverty rate of 10.9%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 14.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($54,923) that falls below the national average. However, Harlan’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Harlan has a population of 4,896 with a median age of 48.2 years. Compare Harlan with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Harlan
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shenandoah | 4,913 | $52,469 | $110,000 | Compare |
| Vinton | 4,948 | $65,488 | $146,400 | Compare |
| Humboldt | 4,761 | $70,661 | $162,600 | Compare |
| Iowa Falls | 5,062 | $53,051 | $106,300 | Compare |
| Le Claire | 4,718 | $100,404 | $300,200 | Compare |
| Sergeant Bluff | 5,090 | $122,610 | $287,600 | Compare |
| Glenwood | 5,118 | $69,320 | $193,800 | Compare |
| Manchester | 5,144 | $58,578 | $130,500 | 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 Harlan
What is the population of Harlan, IA?
The population of Harlan, IA is 4,896 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Harlan?
The median household income in Harlan, IA is $54,923 per year.
What is the median home value in Harlan?
The median home value in Harlan, IA is $137,500.
What is the average rent in Harlan?
The median monthly rent in Harlan, IA is $856.
What is the unemployment rate in Harlan?
The unemployment rate in Harlan, IA is 6.2%.