Lakota, IA
Population 249 · Iowa
About Lakota, IA
Lakota is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 249 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $73,250 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 46.9 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 Lakota features a median home value of $42,300, which is 83% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Lakota one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $850, 27% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 134 total housing units, 79% are owner-occupied (92 units) and 21% are renter-occupied (25 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Lakota shows an unemployment rate of 2.6%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 13.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Lakota have an average one-way commute time of 26.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
3.7% of Lakota 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 2.8% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.2% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Lakota Ranks in Iowa
Cost of Living in Lakota, IA
Compared to national averages, Lakota has a median household income of $73,250 (3% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $42,300, which is 83% below the national median. Monthly rent at $850 is 27% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Lakota's income is 8% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 68% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Lakota, IA?
Lakota offers affordable housing with a median home value of $42,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $850/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.6%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($73,250) that falls below the national average. However, Lakota’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Lakota has a population of 249 with a median age of 46.9 years. Compare Lakota with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
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Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
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 Lakota
What is the population of Lakota, IA?
The population of Lakota, IA is 249 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 Lakota?
The median household income in Lakota, IA is $73,250 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Lakota?
The median home value in Lakota, IA is $42,300, which is 83% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Lakota?
The median monthly rent in Lakota, IA is $850, which is 27% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Lakota?
The unemployment rate in Lakota, IA is 2.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Lakota, IA a good place to live?
Lakota offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 249 and a median age of 46.9, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Lakota, IA?
3.7% of residents in Lakota 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 Lakota?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Lakota, IA: median home value is $42,300 (83% below national), median rent is $850/month, and median household income is $73,250. The home-value-to-income ratio is 0.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Lakota?
The poverty rate in Lakota, IA is 13.7%, 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 Lakota, IA?
Lakota's population is 2.8% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.2% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.