Jefferson, IA
Population 4,164 · Iowa
About Jefferson, IA
Jefferson is a small town located in Iowa with a population of 4,164 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $54,286 per year, which is 28% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 51.5 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 Jefferson features a median home value of $126,900, which is 48% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Jefferson one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $745, 36% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,286 total housing units, 70% are owner-occupied (1,485 units) and 30% are renter-occupied (623 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Jefferson shows an unemployment rate of 1.5%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 8.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Jefferson have an average one-way commute time of 23.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
21.7% of Jefferson 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 3.6% White, 1.9% Hispanic or Latino, 1.2% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 2.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Jefferson, IA
Compared to national averages, Jefferson has a median household income of $54,286 (28% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $126,900, which is 48% below the national median. Monthly rent at $745 is 36% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Jefferson's income is 20% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 4% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Jefferson, IA?
Jefferson offers affordable housing with a median home value of $126,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $745/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.5%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 8.4%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 23.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($54,286) that falls below the national average. However, Jefferson’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Jefferson has a population of 4,164 with a median age of 51.5 years. Compare Jefferson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Jefferson
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carlisle | 4,187 | $98,333 | $208,100 | Compare |
| Chariton | 4,235 | $52,109 | $84,200 | Compare |
| Rock Valley | 4,061 | $67,012 | $225,800 | Compare |
| Monticello | 4,055 | $67,788 | $160,500 | Compare |
| Forest City | 4,280 | $62,917 | $136,400 | Compare |
| Hampton | 4,311 | $48,922 | $91,900 | Compare |
| Dyersville | 4,357 | $72,768 | $219,800 | Compare |
| Cresco | 3,901 | $60,769 | $105,200 | 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 Jefferson With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Jefferson
What is the population of Jefferson, IA?
The population of Jefferson, IA is 4,164 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 Jefferson?
The median household income in Jefferson, IA is $54,286 per year, which is 28% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Jefferson?
The median home value in Jefferson, IA is $126,900, which is 48% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Jefferson?
The median monthly rent in Jefferson, IA is $745, which is 36% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Jefferson?
The unemployment rate in Jefferson, IA is 1.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Jefferson, IA a good place to live?
Jefferson offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 4,164 and a median age of 51.5, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Jefferson, IA?
21.7% of residents in Jefferson 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 Jefferson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Jefferson, IA: median home value is $126,900 (48% below national), median rent is $745/month, and median household income is $54,286. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Jefferson?
The poverty rate in Jefferson, IA is 8.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Jefferson, IA?
Jefferson's population is 3.6% White, 1.9% Hispanic or Latino, 1.2% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.3% two or more races. 2.1% of residents are foreign-born.