Oelwein, IA
Population 5,878 · Iowa
About Oelwein, IA
Oelwein is a small town located in Iowa with a population of 5,878 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $49,821 per year, which is 34% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 44 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 Oelwein features a median home value of $96,800, which is 60% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Oelwein one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $762, 34% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,911 total housing units, 77% are owner-occupied (1,948 units) and 23% are renter-occupied (589 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Oelwein shows an unemployment rate of 7.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 17.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Oelwein have an average one-way commute time of 21.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
16.1% of Oelwein 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 2.2% White, 2.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.5% of the population being foreign-born.
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.
Compare Oelwein With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Oelwein
What is the population of Oelwein, IA?
The population of Oelwein, IA is 5,878 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 Oelwein?
The median household income in Oelwein, IA is $49,821 per year, which is 34% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Oelwein?
The median home value in Oelwein, IA is $96,800, which is 60% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Oelwein?
The median monthly rent in Oelwein, IA is $762, which is 34% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Oelwein?
The unemployment rate in Oelwein, IA is 7.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Oelwein, IA a good place to live?
Oelwein offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 5,878 and a median age of 44, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Oelwein, IA?
16.1% of residents in Oelwein 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 Oelwein?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Oelwein, IA: median home value is $96,800 (60% below national), median rent is $762/month, and median household income is $49,821. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Oelwein?
The poverty rate in Oelwein, IA is 17.1%, 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 Oelwein, IA?
Oelwein's population is 2.2% White, 2.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.2% two or more races. 0.5% of residents are foreign-born.