Oelwein, IA
Population 5,878 · Iowa
About Oelwein, IA
Oelwein is a small community in Iowa with a population of 5,878 residents. The median household income is $49,821 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Oelwein is 44 years.
Housing in Oelwein has a median home value of $96,800 and median monthly rent of $762. Of the 2,911 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 1,948 owner-occupied and 589 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Oelwein is 7.8% and the poverty rate is 17.1%. 16.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 21.2 minutes.
Cost of Living in Oelwein, IA
Compared to national averages, Oelwein has a median household income of $49,821 (34% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $96,800, which is 60% below the national median. Monthly rent at $762 is 34% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Oelwein's income is 27% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 27% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Oelwein, IA?
Oelwein offers affordable housing with a median home value of $96,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $762/month, and short commute times averaging just 21.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($49,821) that falls below the national average. However, Oelwein’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Oelwein has a population of 5,878 with a median age of 44 years. Compare Oelwein with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Oelwein
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Estherville | 5,865 | $54,624 | $96,300 | Compare |
| Polk City | 5,833 | $163,000 | $385,000 | Compare |
| Asbury | 5,949 | $130,071 | $312,400 | Compare |
| Maquoketa | 6,105 | $56,039 | $126,800 | Compare |
| Independence | 6,149 | $72,250 | $156,900 | Compare |
| Anamosa | 5,553 | $56,167 | $164,900 | Compare |
| Red Oak | 5,542 | $52,996 | $91,600 | Compare |
| DeWitt | 5,535 | $84,474 | $223,100 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Oelwein
What is the population of Oelwein, IA?
The population of Oelwein, IA is 5,878 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Oelwein?
The median household income in Oelwein, IA is $49,821 per year.
What is the median home value in Oelwein?
The median home value in Oelwein, IA is $96,800.
What is the average rent in Oelwein?
The median monthly rent in Oelwein, IA is $762.
What is the unemployment rate in Oelwein?
The unemployment rate in Oelwein, IA is 7.8%.