Plainfield, IA
Population 379 · Iowa
About Plainfield, IA
Plainfield is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 379 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $75,500 per year, which is 0% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 43.4 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 Plainfield features a median home value of $132,700, which is 46% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Plainfield one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $682, 41% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 183 total housing units, 84% are owner-occupied (138 units) and 16% are renter-occupied (26 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Plainfield shows an unemployment rate of 10.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 7.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Plainfield have an average one-way commute time of 22.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
11.1% of Plainfield 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 4.2% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Plainfield, IA
Compared to national averages, Plainfield has a median household income of $75,500 (0% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $132,700, which is 46% below the national median. Monthly rent at $682 is 41% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Plainfield's income is 11% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 0% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Plainfield, IA?
Plainfield offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $75,500, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $132,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $682/month. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 7.4%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 22.1 minutes.
Plainfield has a population of 379 with a median age of 43.4 years. Compare Plainfield with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Plainfield
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mondamin | 378 | $71,750 | $90,000 | Compare |
| Callender | 381 | $66,667 | $107,100 | Compare |
| New Vienna | 377 | $90,938 | $176,800 | Compare |
| Bonaparte | 382 | $40,000 | $68,500 | Compare |
| Donahue | 382 | $103,750 | $211,900 | Compare |
| Duncombe | 382 | $63,125 | $108,200 | Compare |
| Letts | 382 | $75,625 | $103,700 | Compare |
| Lockridge | 383 | $93,929 | $79,700 | 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 Plainfield With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Plainfield
What is the population of Plainfield, IA?
The population of Plainfield, IA is 379 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 Plainfield?
The median household income in Plainfield, IA is $75,500 per year, which is 0% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Plainfield?
The median home value in Plainfield, IA is $132,700, which is 46% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Plainfield?
The median monthly rent in Plainfield, IA is $682, which is 41% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Plainfield?
The unemployment rate in Plainfield, IA is 10.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Plainfield, IA a good place to live?
Plainfield offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 379 and a median age of 43.4, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Plainfield, IA?
11.1% of residents in Plainfield 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 Plainfield?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Plainfield, IA: median home value is $132,700 (46% below national), median rent is $682/month, and median household income is $75,500. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Plainfield?
The poverty rate in Plainfield, IA is 7.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Plainfield, IA?
Plainfield's population is 4.2% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.8% of residents are foreign-born.