Menlo, IA
Population 355 · Iowa
About Menlo, IA
Menlo is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 355 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $78,333 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 46.1 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 Menlo features a median home value of $107,100, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Menlo one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,078, 7% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 168 total housing units, 90% are owner-occupied (132 units) and 10% are renter-occupied (14 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Menlo shows an unemployment rate of 12.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 5.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Menlo have an average one-way commute time of 22.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
8.6% of Menlo 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 3.1% White, 2.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 2.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Menlo, IA
Compared to national averages, Menlo has a median household income of $78,333 (4% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $107,100, which is 56% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,078 is 7% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Menlo's income is 15% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 19% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Menlo, IA?
Menlo offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $78,333, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $107,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,078/month. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 5.1%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 22.7 minutes.
Menlo has a population of 355 with a median age of 46.1 years. Compare Menlo 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 Menlo
What is the population of Menlo, IA?
The population of Menlo, IA is 355 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 Menlo?
The median household income in Menlo, IA is $78,333 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Menlo?
The median home value in Menlo, IA is $107,100, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Menlo?
The median monthly rent in Menlo, IA is $1,078, which is 7% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Menlo?
The unemployment rate in Menlo, IA is 12.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Menlo, IA a good place to live?
Menlo offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 355 and a median age of 46.1, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Menlo, IA?
8.6% of residents in Menlo 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 Menlo?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Menlo, IA: median home value is $107,100 (56% below national), median rent is $1,078/month, and median household income is $78,333. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Menlo?
The poverty rate in Menlo, IA is 5.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Menlo, IA?
Menlo's population is 3.1% White, 2.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 2.5% of residents are foreign-born.