Tripoli, IA
Population 1,256 · Iowa
About Tripoli, IA
Tripoli is a small town located in Iowa with a population of 1,256 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $75,988 per year, which is 1% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 42.8 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 Tripoli features a median home value of $116,200, which is 53% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Tripoli one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $888, 24% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 569 total housing units, 83% are owner-occupied (452 units) and 17% are renter-occupied (92 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Tripoli shows an unemployment rate of 2.8%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 2.9%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Tripoli have an average one-way commute time of 29 minutes.
Education & Demographics
22.7% of Tripoli 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 1.8% White, 0.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Tripoli, IA
Compared to national averages, Tripoli has a median household income of $75,988 (1% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $116,200, which is 53% below the national median. Monthly rent at $888 is 24% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Tripoli's income is 12% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 12% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Tripoli, IA?
Tripoli offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $75,988, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $116,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $888/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.8%, and a low poverty rate of 2.9%, better than the national average.
Tripoli has a population of 1,256 with a median age of 42.8 years. Compare Tripoli with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Tripoli
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montezuma | 1,257 | $63,375 | $157,800 | Compare |
| Dike | 1,258 | $88,523 | $235,900 | Compare |
| Baxter | 1,251 | $60,625 | $162,300 | Compare |
| Elkader | 1,249 | $61,786 | $134,300 | Compare |
| Clarksville | 1,248 | $55,781 | $114,200 | Compare |
| Central City | 1,266 | $81,607 | $166,400 | Compare |
| Fayette | 1,242 | $39,297 | $123,300 | Compare |
| Marcus | 1,236 | $75,288 | $174,100 | 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 Tripoli With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Tripoli
What is the population of Tripoli, IA?
The population of Tripoli, IA is 1,256 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Iowa.
What is the median household income in Tripoli?
The median household income in Tripoli, IA is $75,988 per year, which is 1% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Tripoli?
The median home value in Tripoli, IA is $116,200, which is 53% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Tripoli?
The median monthly rent in Tripoli, IA is $888, which is 24% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Tripoli?
The unemployment rate in Tripoli, IA is 2.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Tripoli, IA a good place to live?
Tripoli offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 1,256 and a median age of 42.8, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Tripoli, IA?
22.7% of residents in Tripoli 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 Tripoli?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Tripoli, IA: median home value is $116,200 (53% below national), median rent is $888/month, and median household income is $75,988. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Tripoli?
The poverty rate in Tripoli, IA is 2.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Tripoli, IA?
Tripoli's population is 1.8% White, 0.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.