Melvin, IA
Population 311 · Iowa
About Melvin, IA
Melvin is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 311 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $65,795 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.8 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 Melvin features a median home value of $51,500, which is 79% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Melvin one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $600, 48% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 123 total housing units, 79% are owner-occupied (85 units) and 21% are renter-occupied (22 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Melvin shows an unemployment rate of 4.8%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 36.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Melvin have an average one-way commute time of 18.1 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
7.7% of Melvin 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 30.2% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 5.8% Asian residents, with 7.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Melvin, IA
Compared to national averages, Melvin has a median household income of $65,795 (12% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $51,500, which is 79% below the national median. Monthly rent at $600 is 48% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Melvin's income is 3% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 61% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Melvin, IA?
Melvin offers affordable housing with a median home value of $51,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $600/month, and short commute times averaging just 18.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($65,795) that falls below the national average. However, Melvin’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Melvin has a population of 311 with a median age of 31.8 years. Compare Melvin with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
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Demographics
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Economy & Education
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Other Cities in Iowa
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Melvin
What is the population of Melvin, IA?
The population of Melvin, IA is 311 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 Melvin?
The median household income in Melvin, IA is $65,795 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Melvin?
The median home value in Melvin, IA is $51,500, which is 79% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Melvin?
The median monthly rent in Melvin, IA is $600, which is 48% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Melvin?
The unemployment rate in Melvin, IA is 4.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Melvin, IA a good place to live?
Melvin offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 311 and a median age of 31.8, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Melvin, IA?
7.7% of residents in Melvin 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 Melvin?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Melvin, IA: median home value is $51,500 (79% below national), median rent is $600/month, and median household income is $65,795. The home-value-to-income ratio is 0.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Melvin?
The poverty rate in Melvin, IA is 36.6%, 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 Melvin, IA?
Melvin's population is 30.2% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 5.8% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 7.7% of residents are foreign-born.