Mapleton, IA
Population 997 · Iowa
About Mapleton, IA
Mapleton is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 997 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $52,955 per year, which is 30% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 56.7 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 Mapleton features a median home value of $116,400, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Mapleton one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $780, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 630 total housing units, 77% are owner-occupied (399 units) and 23% are renter-occupied (119 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Mapleton shows an unemployment rate of 2.7%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 10.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Mapleton have an average one-way commute time of 20.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
19.0% of Mapleton 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 2.3% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.8% Asian residents, with 2.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Mapleton, IA
Compared to national averages, Mapleton has a median household income of $52,955 (30% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $116,400, which is 52% below the national median. Monthly rent at $780 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Mapleton's income is 22% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 12% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Mapleton, IA?
Mapleton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $116,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $780/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.7%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 10.4%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 20.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($52,955) that falls below the national average. However, Mapleton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Mapleton has a population of 997 with a median age of 56.7 years. Compare Mapleton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Mapleton
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gladbrook | 998 | $63,125 | $117,200 | Compare |
| Buffalo Center | 1,000 | $49,474 | $93,800 | Compare |
| Woodward | 1,002 | $68,571 | $179,500 | Compare |
| Afton | 991 | $57,232 | $99,700 | Compare |
| Villisca | 1,004 | $58,469 | $74,100 | Compare |
| Aplington | 1,012 | $70,093 | $131,800 | Compare |
| Janesville | 1,012 | $84,231 | $214,700 | Compare |
| Newhall | 1,012 | $68,295 | $171,500 | 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 Mapleton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Mapleton
What is the population of Mapleton, IA?
The population of Mapleton, IA is 997 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 Mapleton?
The median household income in Mapleton, IA is $52,955 per year, which is 30% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Mapleton?
The median home value in Mapleton, IA is $116,400, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Mapleton?
The median monthly rent in Mapleton, IA is $780, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Mapleton?
The unemployment rate in Mapleton, IA is 2.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Mapleton, IA a good place to live?
Mapleton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 997 and a median age of 56.7, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Mapleton, IA?
19.0% of residents in Mapleton 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 Mapleton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Mapleton, IA: median home value is $116,400 (52% below national), median rent is $780/month, and median household income is $52,955. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Mapleton?
The poverty rate in Mapleton, IA is 10.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Mapleton, IA?
Mapleton's population is 2.3% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.8% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 2.3% of residents are foreign-born.