Marshalltown, IA
Population 27,491 · Iowa
About Marshalltown, IA
Marshalltown is a mid-sized city located in Iowa with a population of 27,491 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $68,854 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.7 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Marshalltown features a median home value of $117,100, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Marshalltown one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $864, 26% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 10,893 total housing units, 67% are owner-occupied (6,772 units) and 33% are renter-occupied (3,355 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Marshalltown shows an unemployment rate of 4.5%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 14.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Marshalltown have an average one-way commute time of 17.4 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
19.7% of Marshalltown 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 28.8% White, 2.4% Hispanic or Latino, 1.1% Black or African American, and 2.8% Asian residents, with 19.1% of the population being foreign-born.
How Marshalltown Ranks in Iowa
Cost of Living in Marshalltown, IA
Compared to national averages, Marshalltown has a median household income of $68,854 (8% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $117,100, which is 52% below the national median. Monthly rent at $864 is 26% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Marshalltown's income is 1% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 11% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Marshalltown, IA?
Marshalltown offers affordable housing with a median home value of $117,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $864/month, and short commute times averaging just 17.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($68,854) that falls below the national average. However, Marshalltown’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Marshalltown has a population of 27,491 with a median age of 35.7 years. Compare Marshalltown with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Marshalltown
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mason City | 27,135 | $62,369 | $130,000 | Compare |
| Waukee | 26,974 | $106,728 | $328,200 | Compare |
| Ottumwa | 25,352 | $56,994 | $92,400 | Compare |
| Fort Dodge | 24,788 | $61,769 | $128,900 | Compare |
| Clinton | 24,425 | $57,493 | $115,400 | Compare |
| Johnston | 24,196 | $103,430 | $346,200 | Compare |
| Burlington | 23,800 | $55,274 | $115,800 | Compare |
| Muscatine | 23,567 | $59,332 | $146,900 | 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 Marshalltown With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Marshalltown
What is the population of Marshalltown, IA?
The population of Marshalltown, IA is 27,491 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Iowa.
What is the median household income in Marshalltown?
The median household income in Marshalltown, IA is $68,854 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Marshalltown?
The median home value in Marshalltown, IA is $117,100, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Marshalltown?
The median monthly rent in Marshalltown, IA is $864, which is 26% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Marshalltown?
The unemployment rate in Marshalltown, IA is 4.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Marshalltown, IA a good place to live?
Marshalltown offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 27,491 and a median age of 35.7, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Marshalltown, IA?
19.7% of residents in Marshalltown 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 Marshalltown?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Marshalltown, IA: median home value is $117,100 (52% below national), median rent is $864/month, and median household income is $68,854. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Marshalltown?
The poverty rate in Marshalltown, IA is 14.0%, 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 Marshalltown, IA?
Marshalltown's population is 28.8% White, 2.4% Hispanic or Latino, 1.1% Black or African American, 2.8% Asian, and 2.0% two or more races. 19.1% of residents are foreign-born.