Olin, IA
Population 849 · Iowa
About Olin, IA
Olin is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 849 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $67,120 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33 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 Olin features a median home value of $98,500, which is 60% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Olin one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $775, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 320 total housing units, 72% are owner-occupied (206 units) and 28% are renter-occupied (79 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Olin shows an unemployment rate of 14.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 14.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Olin have an average one-way commute time of 34.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
5.1% of Olin 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 4.8% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 1.1% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Olin, IA
Compared to national averages, Olin has a median household income of $67,120 (11% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $98,500, which is 60% below the national median. Monthly rent at $775 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Olin's income is 1% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 26% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Olin, IA?
Olin offers affordable housing with a median home value of $98,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $775/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($67,120) that falls below the national average. However, Olin’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Olin has a population of 849 with a median age of 33 years. Compare Olin with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Olin
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
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 Olin With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Olin
What is the population of Olin, IA?
The population of Olin, IA is 849 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 Olin?
The median household income in Olin, IA is $67,120 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Olin?
The median home value in Olin, IA is $98,500, which is 60% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Olin?
The median monthly rent in Olin, IA is $775, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Olin?
The unemployment rate in Olin, IA is 14.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Olin, IA a good place to live?
Olin offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 849 and a median age of 33, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Olin, IA?
5.1% of residents in Olin 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 Olin?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Olin, IA: median home value is $98,500 (60% below national), median rent is $775/month, and median household income is $67,120. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Olin?
The poverty rate in Olin, IA is 14.7%, 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 Olin, IA?
Olin's population is 4.8% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 1.1% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.2% of residents are foreign-born.