Nichols, IA
Population 393 · Iowa
About Nichols, IA
Nichols is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 393 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $87,500 per year, which is 16% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.7 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 Nichols features a median home value of $119,800, which is 51% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Nichols one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $638, 45% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 201 total housing units, 82% are owner-occupied (125 units) and 18% are renter-occupied (27 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Nichols shows an unemployment rate of 0.5%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 3.6%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Nichols have an average one-way commute time of 28.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
11.6% of Nichols 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 27.7% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 10.4% of the population being foreign-born.
How Nichols Ranks in Iowa
Cost of Living in Nichols, IA
Compared to national averages, Nichols has a median household income of $87,500 (16% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $119,800, which is 51% below the national median. Monthly rent at $638 is 45% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Nichols's income is 29% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 9% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Nichols, IA?
Nichols offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $87,500, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $119,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $638/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.5%, and a low poverty rate of 3.6%, better than the national average.
Nichols has a population of 393 with a median age of 33.7 years. Compare Nichols with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
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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 Nichols
What is the population of Nichols, IA?
The population of Nichols, IA is 393 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 Nichols?
The median household income in Nichols, IA is $87,500 per year, which is 16% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Nichols?
The median home value in Nichols, IA is $119,800, which is 51% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Nichols?
The median monthly rent in Nichols, IA is $638, which is 45% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Nichols?
The unemployment rate in Nichols, IA is 0.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Nichols, IA a good place to live?
Nichols offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 393 and a median age of 33.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Nichols, IA?
11.6% of residents in Nichols 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 Nichols?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Nichols, IA: median home value is $119,800 (51% below national), median rent is $638/month, and median household income is $87,500. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Nichols?
The poverty rate in Nichols, IA is 3.6%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Nichols, IA?
Nichols's population is 27.7% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 10.4% of residents are foreign-born.