Martensdale, IA
Population 588 · Iowa
About Martensdale, IA
Martensdale is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 588 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $53,750 per year, which is 28% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 29 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 Martensdale features a median home value of $176,400, which is 28% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Martensdale in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $863, 26% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 267 total housing units, 76% are owner-occupied (197 units) and 24% are renter-occupied (63 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Martensdale shows an unemployment rate of 5.3%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 11.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Martensdale have an average one-way commute time of 28.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
16.8% of Martensdale 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 0.3% White, 0.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Martensdale, IA
Compared to national averages, Martensdale has a median household income of $53,750 (28% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $176,400, which is 28% below the national median. Monthly rent at $863 is 26% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Martensdale's income is 21% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 33% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Martensdale, IA?
Martensdale offers affordable housing with a median home value of $176,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $863/month, and a low poverty rate of 11.4%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($53,750) that falls below the national average. However, Martensdale’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Martensdale has a population of 588 with a median age of 29 years. Compare Martensdale 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 Martensdale
What is the population of Martensdale, IA?
The population of Martensdale, IA is 588 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 Martensdale?
The median household income in Martensdale, IA is $53,750 per year, which is 28% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Martensdale?
The median home value in Martensdale, IA is $176,400, which is 28% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Martensdale?
The median monthly rent in Martensdale, IA is $863, which is 26% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Martensdale?
The unemployment rate in Martensdale, IA is 5.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Martensdale, IA a good place to live?
Martensdale offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 588 and a median age of 29, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Martensdale, IA?
16.8% of residents in Martensdale 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 Martensdale?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Martensdale, IA: median home value is $176,400 (28% below national), median rent is $863/month, and median household income is $53,750. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Martensdale?
The poverty rate in Martensdale, IA is 11.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Martensdale, IA?
Martensdale's population is 0.3% White, 0.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 1.0% two or more races. 0.3% of residents are foreign-born.