Monroe, IA
Population 2,074 · Iowa
About Monroe, IA
Monroe is a small town located in Iowa with a population of 2,074 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $81,488 per year, which is 8% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.5 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 Monroe features a median home value of $173,500, which is 29% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Monroe in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $780, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 882 total housing units, 76% are owner-occupied (662 units) and 24% are renter-occupied (212 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Monroe shows an unemployment rate of 1.9%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 4.3%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Monroe have an average one-way commute time of 28.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
19.4% of Monroe 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 0.8% White, 0.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Monroe, IA
Compared to national averages, Monroe has a median household income of $81,488 (8% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $173,500, which is 29% below the national median. Monthly rent at $780 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Monroe's income is 20% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 31% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Monroe, IA?
Monroe offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $81,488, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $173,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $780/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.9%, and a low poverty rate of 4.3%, better than the national average.
Monroe has a population of 2,074 with a median age of 35.5 years. Compare Monroe with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Monroe
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audubon | 2,069 | $41,389 | $92,800 | Compare |
| Toledo | 2,079 | $56,719 | $124,000 | Compare |
| Colfax | 2,089 | $82,878 | $160,500 | Compare |
| Dallas Center | 2,058 | $88,750 | $231,100 | Compare |
| Lake Mills | 2,054 | $70,333 | $127,100 | Compare |
| Ely | 2,033 | $102,262 | $275,800 | Compare |
| Lamoni | 2,121 | $52,300 | $107,900 | Compare |
| Columbus Junction | 2,129 | $76,518 | $114,200 | 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 Monroe With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Monroe
What is the population of Monroe, IA?
The population of Monroe, IA is 2,074 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Iowa.
What is the median household income in Monroe?
The median household income in Monroe, IA is $81,488 per year, which is 8% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Monroe?
The median home value in Monroe, IA is $173,500, which is 29% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Monroe?
The median monthly rent in Monroe, IA is $780, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Monroe?
The unemployment rate in Monroe, IA is 1.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Monroe, IA a good place to live?
Monroe offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 2,074 and a median age of 35.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Monroe, IA?
19.4% of residents in Monroe 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 Monroe?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Monroe, IA: median home value is $173,500 (29% below national), median rent is $780/month, and median household income is $81,488. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Monroe?
The poverty rate in Monroe, IA is 4.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Monroe, IA?
Monroe's population is 0.8% White, 0.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.1% two or more races. 1.2% of residents are foreign-born.