Runnells, IA
Population 397 · Iowa
About Runnells, IA
Runnells is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 397 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $98,125 per year, which is 31% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 39.5 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Runnells features a median home value of $196,900, which is 20% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Runnells in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $725, 38% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 162 total housing units, 84% are owner-occupied (134 units) and 16% are renter-occupied (25 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Runnells shows an unemployment rate of 5.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 5.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Runnells have an average one-way commute time of 29.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
20.6% of Runnells 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 0.8% White, 1.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.5% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Runnells, IA
Compared to national averages, Runnells has a median household income of $98,125 (31% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $196,900, which is 20% below the national median. Monthly rent at $725 is 38% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Runnells's income is 44% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 49% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Runnells, IA?
Runnells offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $98,125, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $196,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $725/month. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 5.8%, better than the national average.
Runnells has a population of 397 with a median age of 39.5 years. Compare Runnells 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 Runnells
What is the population of Runnells, IA?
The population of Runnells, IA is 397 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 Runnells?
The median household income in Runnells, IA is $98,125 per year, which is 31% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Runnells?
The median home value in Runnells, IA is $196,900, which is 20% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Runnells?
The median monthly rent in Runnells, IA is $725, which is 38% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Runnells?
The unemployment rate in Runnells, IA is 5.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Runnells, IA a good place to live?
Runnells offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 397 and a median age of 39.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Runnells, IA?
20.6% of residents in Runnells 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 Runnells?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Runnells, IA: median home value is $196,900 (20% below national), median rent is $725/month, and median household income is $98,125. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Runnells?
The poverty rate in Runnells, IA is 5.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Runnells, IA?
Runnells's population is 0.8% White, 1.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.5% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.