Thornton, IA
Population 534 · Iowa
About Thornton, IA
Thornton is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 534 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $66,979 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.3 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 Thornton features a median home value of $99,000, which is 60% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Thornton one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $775, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 246 total housing units, 86% are owner-occupied (203 units) and 14% are renter-occupied (32 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Thornton shows an unemployment rate of 2.5%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 6.6%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Thornton have an average one-way commute time of 24.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
19.9% of Thornton 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 4.7% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 1.5% Black or African American, and 1.3% Asian residents, with 0.6% of the population being foreign-born.
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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Economy & Education
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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 Thornton
What is the population of Thornton, IA?
The population of Thornton, IA is 534 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 Thornton?
The median household income in Thornton, IA is $66,979 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Thornton?
The median home value in Thornton, IA is $99,000, which is 60% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Thornton?
The median monthly rent in Thornton, IA is $775, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Thornton?
The unemployment rate in Thornton, IA is 2.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Thornton, IA a good place to live?
Thornton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 534 and a median age of 34.3, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Thornton, IA?
19.9% of residents in Thornton 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 Thornton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Thornton, IA: median home value is $99,000 (60% below national), median rent is $775/month, and median household income is $66,979. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Thornton?
The poverty rate in Thornton, IA is 6.6%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Thornton, IA?
Thornton's population is 4.7% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 1.5% Black or African American, 1.3% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.6% of residents are foreign-born.