Malvern, IA
Population 1,415 · Iowa
About Malvern, IA
Malvern is a small town located in Iowa with a population of 1,415 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $82,027 per year, which is 9% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 42.6 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 Malvern features a median home value of $173,900, which is 29% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Malvern in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $843, 28% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 562 total housing units, 85% are owner-occupied (413 units) and 15% are renter-occupied (71 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Malvern shows an unemployment rate of 5.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 5.3%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Malvern have an average one-way commute time of 30.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
28.8% of Malvern 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 1.5% White, 2.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Malvern, IA
Compared to national averages, Malvern has a median household income of $82,027 (9% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $173,900, which is 29% below the national median. Monthly rent at $843 is 28% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Malvern's income is 21% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 32% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Malvern, IA?
Malvern offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $82,027, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $173,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $843/month. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 5.3%, better than the national average.
Malvern has a population of 1,415 with a median age of 42.6 years. Compare Malvern with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Malvern
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strawberry Point | 1,415 | $58,352 | $115,200 | Compare |
| Woodbine | 1,418 | $54,167 | $141,900 | Compare |
| Earlham | 1,406 | $104,464 | $248,400 | Compare |
| Coon Rapids | 1,403 | $64,338 | $129,300 | Compare |
| Kingsley | 1,427 | $73,103 | $146,200 | Compare |
| Nora Springs | 1,394 | $72,083 | $126,300 | Compare |
| Greene | 1,390 | $54,298 | $125,200 | Compare |
| Bedford | 1,389 | $57,031 | $88,900 | 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 Malvern With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Malvern
What is the population of Malvern, IA?
The population of Malvern, IA is 1,415 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 Malvern?
The median household income in Malvern, IA is $82,027 per year, which is 9% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Malvern?
The median home value in Malvern, IA is $173,900, which is 29% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Malvern?
The median monthly rent in Malvern, IA is $843, which is 28% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Malvern?
The unemployment rate in Malvern, IA is 5.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Malvern, IA a good place to live?
Malvern offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,415 and a median age of 42.6, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Malvern, IA?
28.8% of residents in Malvern 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 Malvern?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Malvern, IA: median home value is $173,900 (29% below national), median rent is $843/month, and median household income is $82,027. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Malvern?
The poverty rate in Malvern, IA is 5.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Malvern, IA?
Malvern's population is 1.5% White, 2.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.1% two or more races. 0.4% of residents are foreign-born.