Postville, IA
Population 2,787 · Iowa
About Postville, IA
Postville is a small town located in Iowa with a population of 2,787 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $47,281 per year, which is 37% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 25.4 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 Postville features a median home value of $100,300, which is 59% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Postville one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $872, 25% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 980 total housing units, 55% are owner-occupied (518 units) and 45% are renter-occupied (416 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Postville shows an unemployment rate of 6.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 25.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Postville have an average one-way commute time of 20.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.7% of Postville 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 23.5% White, 3.6% Hispanic or Latino, 2.8% Black or African American, and 15.3% Asian residents, with 30.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Postville, IA
Compared to national averages, Postville has a median household income of $47,281 (37% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $100,300, which is 59% below the national median. Monthly rent at $872 is 25% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Postville's income is 30% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 24% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Postville, IA?
Postville offers affordable housing with a median home value of $100,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $872/month, and short commute times averaging just 20.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($47,281) that falls below the national average. However, Postville’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Postville has a population of 2,787 with a median age of 25.4 years. Compare Postville with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Postville
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grundy Center | 2,794 | $77,540 | $173,200 | Compare |
| Clarion | 2,775 | $58,702 | $107,600 | Compare |
| Madrid | 2,803 | $86,915 | $185,100 | Compare |
| Sibley | 2,821 | $54,767 | $119,800 | Compare |
| Marengo | 2,823 | $58,125 | $114,100 | Compare |
| Bloomfield | 2,723 | $61,679 | $122,600 | Compare |
| Park View | 2,861 | $106,429 | $276,500 | Compare |
| Onawa | 2,862 | $54,659 | $125,700 | 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 Postville With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Postville
What is the population of Postville, IA?
The population of Postville, IA is 2,787 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 Postville?
The median household income in Postville, IA is $47,281 per year, which is 37% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Postville?
The median home value in Postville, IA is $100,300, which is 59% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Postville?
The median monthly rent in Postville, IA is $872, which is 25% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Postville?
The unemployment rate in Postville, IA is 6.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Postville, IA a good place to live?
Postville offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,787 and a median age of 25.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Postville, IA?
14.7% of residents in Postville 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 Postville?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Postville, IA: median home value is $100,300 (59% below national), median rent is $872/month, and median household income is $47,281. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Postville?
The poverty rate in Postville, IA is 25.6%, 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 Postville, IA?
Postville's population is 23.5% White, 3.6% Hispanic or Latino, 2.8% Black or African American, 15.3% Asian, and 10.7% two or more races. 30.7% of residents are foreign-born.