Rockwell, IA
Population 942 · Iowa
About Rockwell, IA
Rockwell is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 942 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $58,850 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 47.3 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 Rockwell features a median home value of $142,600, which is 42% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Rockwell one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $539, 54% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 423 total housing units, 78% are owner-occupied (314 units) and 22% are renter-occupied (91 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Rockwell shows an unemployment rate of 0.7%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 15.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Rockwell have an average one-way commute time of 21.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.2% of Rockwell 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 5.5% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.4% Asian residents, with 1.1% of the population being foreign-born.
How Rockwell Ranks in Iowa
Cost of Living in Rockwell, IA
Compared to national averages, Rockwell has a median household income of $58,850 (22% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $142,600, which is 42% below the national median. Monthly rent at $539 is 54% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Rockwell's income is 13% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 8% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Rockwell, IA?
Rockwell offers affordable housing with a median home value of $142,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $539/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.7%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 21.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($58,850) that falls below the national average. However, Rockwell’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Rockwell has a population of 942 with a median age of 47.3 years. Compare Rockwell with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
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Demographics
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Other Cities in Iowa
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Rockwell
What is the population of Rockwell, IA?
The population of Rockwell, IA is 942 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 Rockwell?
The median household income in Rockwell, IA is $58,850 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Rockwell?
The median home value in Rockwell, IA is $142,600, which is 42% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Rockwell?
The median monthly rent in Rockwell, IA is $539, which is 54% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Rockwell?
The unemployment rate in Rockwell, IA is 0.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Rockwell, IA a good place to live?
Rockwell offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 942 and a median age of 47.3, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Rockwell, IA?
15.2% of residents in Rockwell 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 Rockwell?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Rockwell, IA: median home value is $142,600 (42% below national), median rent is $539/month, and median household income is $58,850. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Rockwell?
The poverty rate in Rockwell, IA is 15.0%, 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 Rockwell, IA?
Rockwell's population is 5.5% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.4% Asian, and 2.0% two or more races. 1.1% of residents are foreign-born.