Hillsboro, IA
Population 159 · Iowa
About Hillsboro, IA
Hillsboro is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 159 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $43,125 per year, which is 43% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.4 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 Hillsboro features a median home value of $47,800, which is 80% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Hillsboro one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,063, 9% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 87 total housing units, 69% are owner-occupied (38 units) and 31% are renter-occupied (17 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Hillsboro shows an unemployment rate of 2.9%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 23.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Hillsboro have an average one-way commute time of 34.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
3.1% of Hillsboro 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 3.1% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Hillsboro Ranks in Iowa
Cost of Living in Hillsboro, IA
Compared to national averages, Hillsboro has a median household income of $43,125 (43% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $47,800, which is 80% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,063 is 9% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Hillsboro's income is 37% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 64% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Hillsboro, IA?
Hillsboro offers affordable housing with a median home value of $47,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,063/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.9%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($43,125) that falls below the national average. However, Hillsboro’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Hillsboro has a population of 159 with a median age of 35.4 years. Compare Hillsboro with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Hillsboro
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leighton | 159 | $75,000 | $117,000 | Compare |
| Randall | 160 | $69,688 | $106,300 | Compare |
| Vincent | 160 | $83,125 | $93,300 | Compare |
| Baldwin | 161 | $49,583 | $49,000 | Compare |
| Castana | 157 | $55,833 | $67,500 | Compare |
| Elberon | 162 | $58,750 | $102,100 | Compare |
| Sun Valley Lake | 162 | $127,188 | $485,300 | Compare |
| Blairsburg | 163 | $83,000 | $101,400 | 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 Hillsboro With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Hillsboro
What is the population of Hillsboro, IA?
The population of Hillsboro, IA is 159 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 Hillsboro?
The median household income in Hillsboro, IA is $43,125 per year, which is 43% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Hillsboro?
The median home value in Hillsboro, IA is $47,800, which is 80% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Hillsboro?
The median monthly rent in Hillsboro, IA is $1,063, which is 9% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Hillsboro?
The unemployment rate in Hillsboro, IA is 2.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Hillsboro, IA a good place to live?
Hillsboro offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 159 and a median age of 35.4, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Hillsboro, IA?
3.1% of residents in Hillsboro 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 Hillsboro?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Hillsboro, IA: median home value is $47,800 (80% below national), median rent is $1,063/month, and median household income is $43,125. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Hillsboro?
The poverty rate in Hillsboro, IA is 23.9%, 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 Hillsboro, IA?
Hillsboro's population is 3.1% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.