Stratford, IA
Population 696 · Iowa
About Stratford, IA
Stratford is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 696 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $40,833 per year, which is 46% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 59.3 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 Stratford features a median home value of $81,100, which is 67% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Stratford one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $580, 50% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 385 total housing units, 82% are owner-occupied (281 units) and 18% are renter-occupied (61 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Stratford 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 9.3%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Stratford have an average one-way commute time of 26.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
9.9% of Stratford 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 0.9% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, and 1.0% Asian residents, with 1.1% of the population being foreign-born.
How Stratford Ranks in Iowa
Cost of Living in Stratford, IA
Compared to national averages, Stratford has a median household income of $40,833 (46% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $81,100, which is 67% below the national median. Monthly rent at $580 is 50% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Stratford's income is 40% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 39% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Stratford, IA?
Stratford offers affordable housing with a median home value of $81,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $580/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.7%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 9.3%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($40,833) that falls below the national average. However, Stratford’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Stratford has a population of 696 with a median age of 59.3 years. Compare Stratford with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Stratford
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hazleton | 698 | $53,542 | $80,100 | Compare |
| Boyden | 702 | $81,354 | $175,300 | Compare |
| Montrose | 688 | $73,333 | $92,100 | Compare |
| University Park | 704 | $65,815 | $92,700 | Compare |
| Minden | 687 | $94,250 | $163,800 | Compare |
| McGregor | 686 | $58,750 | $141,900 | Compare |
| Long Grove | 707 | $124,297 | $295,900 | Compare |
| Ventura | 708 | $83,125 | $344,800 | 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 Stratford With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Stratford
What is the population of Stratford, IA?
The population of Stratford, IA is 696 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 Stratford?
The median household income in Stratford, IA is $40,833 per year, which is 46% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Stratford?
The median home value in Stratford, IA is $81,100, which is 67% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Stratford?
The median monthly rent in Stratford, IA is $580, which is 50% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Stratford?
The unemployment rate in Stratford, 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 Stratford, IA a good place to live?
Stratford offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 696 and a median age of 59.3, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Stratford, IA?
9.9% of residents in Stratford 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 Stratford?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Stratford, IA: median home value is $81,100 (67% below national), median rent is $580/month, and median household income is $40,833. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Stratford?
The poverty rate in Stratford, IA is 9.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Stratford, IA?
Stratford's population is 0.9% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, 1.0% Asian, and 4.3% two or more races. 1.1% of residents are foreign-born.