Lester, IA
Population 308 · Iowa
About Lester, IA
Lester is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 308 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $91,875 per year, which is 22% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38.9 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Lester features a median home value of $185,200, which is 24% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Lester in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 125 total housing units, 97% are owner-occupied (101 units) and 3% are renter-occupied (3 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Lester shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 2.3%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Lester have an average one-way commute time of 18.5 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
20.2% of Lester 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 2.9% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 1.3% Black or African American, and 6.5% Asian residents, with 4.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Lester, IA
Compared to national averages, Lester has a median household income of $91,875 (22% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $185,200, which is 24% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Lester's income is 35% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 40% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Lester, IA?
Lester offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $91,875, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $185,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%, and a low poverty rate of 2.3%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 18.5 minutes.
Lester has a population of 308 with a median age of 38.9 years. Compare Lester 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 Lester
What is the population of Lester, IA?
The population of Lester, IA is 308 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 Lester?
The median household income in Lester, IA is $91,875 per year, which is 22% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Lester?
The median home value in Lester, IA is $185,200, which is 24% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Lester?
The median monthly rent in Lester, IA is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Lester?
The unemployment rate in Lester, IA is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Lester, IA a good place to live?
Lester offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 308 and a median age of 38.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Lester, IA?
20.2% of residents in Lester 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 Lester?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Lester, IA: median home value is $185,200 (24% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $91,875. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Lester?
The poverty rate in Lester, IA is 2.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Lester, IA?
Lester's population is 2.9% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 1.3% Black or African American, 6.5% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 4.9% of residents are foreign-born.