Orient, IA
Population 411 · Iowa
About Orient, IA
Orient is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 411 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $81,250 per year, which is 8% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 42.4 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 Orient features a median home value of $109,800, which is 55% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Orient one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,304, 12% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 172 total housing units, 83% are owner-occupied (132 units) and 17% are renter-occupied (27 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Orient shows an unemployment rate of 12.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 13.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Orient have an average one-way commute time of 20.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
12.0% of Orient 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 1.9% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Orient, IA
Compared to national averages, Orient has a median household income of $81,250 (8% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $109,800, which is 55% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,304 is 12% above the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Orient's income is 20% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 17% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Orient, IA?
Orient offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $81,250, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $109,800, below the US average of $244,900, and short commute times averaging just 20.4 minutes.
Orient has a population of 411 with a median age of 42.4 years. Compare Orient with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Orient
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lime Springs | 410 | $62,083 | $101,900 | Compare |
| Massena | 410 | $61,250 | $96,900 | Compare |
| Allerton | 413 | $45,417 | $85,000 | Compare |
| Salix | 413 | $62,143 | $162,500 | Compare |
| Spillville | 409 | $42,750 | $156,600 | Compare |
| Riverdale | 408 | $88,500 | $270,000 | Compare |
| New Market | 407 | $58,125 | $92,000 | Compare |
| Little Rock | 416 | $64,375 | $78,600 | 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 Orient With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Orient
What is the population of Orient, IA?
The population of Orient, IA is 411 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 Orient?
The median household income in Orient, IA is $81,250 per year, which is 8% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Orient?
The median home value in Orient, IA is $109,800, which is 55% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Orient?
The median monthly rent in Orient, IA is $1,304, which is 12% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Orient?
The unemployment rate in Orient, IA is 12.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Orient, IA a good place to live?
Orient offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 411 and a median age of 42.4, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Orient, IA?
12.0% of residents in Orient 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 Orient?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Orient, IA: median home value is $109,800 (55% below national), median rent is $1,304/month, and median household income is $81,250. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Orient?
The poverty rate in Orient, IA is 13.0%, 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 Orient, IA?
Orient's population is 1.9% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.