Independence, IA
Population 6,149 · Iowa
About Independence, IA
Independence is a small town located in Iowa with a population of 6,149 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $72,250 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 41.2 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Independence features a median home value of $156,900, which is 36% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Independence in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $769, 34% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,856 total housing units, 71% are owner-occupied (1,893 units) and 29% are renter-occupied (780 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Independence shows an unemployment rate of 1.6%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 8.5%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Independence have an average one-way commute time of 21.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
24.0% of Independence residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 2.5% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.4% Asian residents, with 3.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Independence, IA
Compared to national averages, Independence has a median household income of $72,250 (4% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $156,900, which is 36% below the national median. Monthly rent at $769 is 34% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Independence's income is 6% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 19% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Independence, IA?
Independence offers affordable housing with a median home value of $156,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $769/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.6%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 8.5%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 21.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($72,250) that falls below the national average. However, Independence’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Independence has a population of 6,149 with a median age of 41.2 years. Compare Independence with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Independence
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maquoketa | 6,105 | $56,039 | $126,800 | Compare |
| Adel | 6,259 | $96,905 | $320,500 | Compare |
| Orange City | 6,312 | $81,667 | $245,300 | Compare |
| Asbury | 5,949 | $130,071 | $312,400 | Compare |
| Oelwein | 5,878 | $49,821 | $96,800 | Compare |
| Estherville | 5,865 | $54,624 | $96,300 | Compare |
| Polk City | 5,833 | $163,000 | $385,000 | Compare |
| Eldridge | 6,743 | $101,089 | $329,400 | 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 Independence With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Independence
What is the population of Independence, IA?
The population of Independence, IA is 6,149 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Iowa.
What is the median household income in Independence?
The median household income in Independence, IA is $72,250 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Independence?
The median home value in Independence, IA is $156,900, which is 36% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Independence?
The median monthly rent in Independence, IA is $769, which is 34% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Independence?
The unemployment rate in Independence, IA is 1.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Independence, IA a good place to live?
Independence offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 6,149 and a median age of 41.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Independence, IA?
24.0% of residents in Independence 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 Independence?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Independence, IA: median home value is $156,900 (36% below national), median rent is $769/month, and median household income is $72,250. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Independence?
The poverty rate in Independence, IA is 8.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Independence, IA?
Independence's population is 2.5% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.4% Asian, and 1.6% two or more races. 3.2% of residents are foreign-born.