Thornton, IA
Population 534 · Iowa
About Thornton, IA
Thornton is a small community in Iowa with a population of 534 residents. The median household income is $66,979 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Thornton is 34.3 years.
Housing in Thornton has a median home value of $99,000 and median monthly rent of $775. Of the 246 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 203 owner-occupied and 32 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Thornton is 2.5% and the poverty rate is 6.6%. 19.9% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 24.1 minutes.
Cost of Living in Thornton, IA
Compared to national averages, Thornton has a median household income of $66,979 (11% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $99,000, which is 60% below the national median. Monthly rent at $775 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Thornton's income is 1% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 25% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Thornton, IA?
Thornton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $99,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $775/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.5%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 6.6%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 24.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($66,979) that falls below the national average. However, Thornton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Thornton has a population of 534 with a median age of 34.3 years. Compare Thornton 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 Thornton
What is the population of Thornton, IA?
The population of Thornton, IA is 534 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Thornton?
The median household income in Thornton, IA is $66,979 per year.
What is the median home value in Thornton?
The median home value in Thornton, IA is $99,000.
What is the average rent in Thornton?
The median monthly rent in Thornton, IA is $775.
What is the unemployment rate in Thornton?
The unemployment rate in Thornton, IA is 2.5%.