Lacona, IA
Population 307 · Iowa
About Lacona, IA
Lacona is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 307 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $70,647 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 53.6 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 Lacona features a median home value of $92,500, which is 62% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Lacona one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $800, 31% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 180 total housing units, 86% are owner-occupied (125 units) and 14% are renter-occupied (20 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Lacona shows an unemployment rate of 7.4%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 9.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Lacona have an average one-way commute time of 39.1 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
16.8% of Lacona 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 0.3% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 2.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Lacona, IA
Compared to national averages, Lacona has a median household income of $70,647 (6% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $92,500, which is 62% below the national median. Monthly rent at $800 is 31% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Lacona's income is 4% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 30% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Lacona, IA?
Lacona offers affordable housing with a median home value of $92,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $800/month, and a low poverty rate of 9.4%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($70,647) that falls below the national average. However, Lacona’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Lacona has a population of 307 with a median age of 53.6 years. Compare Lacona with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
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Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Lacona
What is the population of Lacona, IA?
The population of Lacona, IA is 307 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 Lacona?
The median household income in Lacona, IA is $70,647 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Lacona?
The median home value in Lacona, IA is $92,500, which is 62% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Lacona?
The median monthly rent in Lacona, IA is $800, which is 31% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Lacona?
The unemployment rate in Lacona, IA is 7.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Lacona, IA a good place to live?
Lacona offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 307 and a median age of 53.6, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Lacona, IA?
16.8% of residents in Lacona 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 Lacona?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Lacona, IA: median home value is $92,500 (62% below national), median rent is $800/month, and median household income is $70,647. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Lacona?
The poverty rate in Lacona, IA is 9.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Lacona, IA?
Lacona's population is 0.3% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 2.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.