Royal, IA
Population 518 · Iowa
About Royal, IA
Royal is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 518 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $57,450 per year, which is 24% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.2 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 Royal features a median home value of $79,400, which is 68% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Royal one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $798, 31% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 231 total housing units, 69% are owner-occupied (144 units) and 31% are renter-occupied (65 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Royal shows an unemployment rate of 3.1%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 15.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Royal have an average one-way commute time of 23.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
19.7% of Royal 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 12.4% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.2% Asian residents, with 0.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Royal, IA
Compared to national averages, Royal has a median household income of $57,450 (24% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $79,400, which is 68% below the national median. Monthly rent at $798 is 31% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Royal's income is 15% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 40% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Royal, IA?
Royal offers affordable housing with a median home value of $79,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $798/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.1%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 23.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($57,450) that falls below the national average. However, Royal’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Royal has a population of 518 with a median age of 31.2 years. Compare Royal with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
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Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Royal
What is the population of Royal, IA?
The population of Royal, IA is 518 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 Royal?
The median household income in Royal, IA is $57,450 per year, which is 24% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Royal?
The median home value in Royal, IA is $79,400, which is 68% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Royal?
The median monthly rent in Royal, IA is $798, which is 31% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Royal?
The unemployment rate in Royal, IA is 3.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Royal, IA a good place to live?
Royal offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 518 and a median age of 31.2, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Royal, IA?
19.7% of residents in Royal 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 Royal?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Royal, IA: median home value is $79,400 (68% below national), median rent is $798/month, and median household income is $57,450. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Royal?
The poverty rate in Royal, IA is 15.3%, 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 Royal, IA?
Royal's population is 12.4% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.2% Asian, and 1.5% two or more races. 0.2% of residents are foreign-born.