Underwood, IA
Population 977 · Iowa
About Underwood, IA
Underwood is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 977 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $90,556 per year, which is 21% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 29.5 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 Underwood features a median home value of $227,400, which is 7% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Underwood in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $819, 30% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 363 total housing units, 81% are owner-occupied (281 units) and 19% are renter-occupied (67 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Underwood shows an unemployment rate of 1.7%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 2.5%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Underwood have an average one-way commute time of 25.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
32.6% of Underwood residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 4.1% White, 3.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.3% Asian residents, with 3.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Underwood, IA
Compared to national averages, Underwood has a median household income of $90,556 (21% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $227,400, which is 7% below the national median. Monthly rent at $819 is 30% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Underwood's income is 33% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 72% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Underwood, IA?
Underwood offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $90,556, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $227,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $819/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.7%, and a low poverty rate of 2.5%, better than the national average.
Underwood has a population of 977 with a median age of 29.5 years. Compare Underwood with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Underwood
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calmar | 980 | $81,583 | $194,600 | Compare |
| Elk Run Heights | 968 | $68,828 | $169,400 | Compare |
| Danville | 966 | $82,917 | $148,600 | Compare |
| Primghar | 965 | $77,813 | $135,500 | Compare |
| Afton | 991 | $57,232 | $99,700 | Compare |
| Mapleton | 997 | $52,955 | $116,400 | Compare |
| Gladbrook | 998 | $63,125 | $117,200 | Compare |
| Buffalo Center | 1,000 | $49,474 | $93,800 | 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 Underwood With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Underwood
What is the population of Underwood, IA?
The population of Underwood, IA is 977 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 Underwood?
The median household income in Underwood, IA is $90,556 per year, which is 21% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Underwood?
The median home value in Underwood, IA is $227,400, which is 7% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Underwood?
The median monthly rent in Underwood, IA is $819, which is 30% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Underwood?
The unemployment rate in Underwood, IA is 1.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Underwood, IA a good place to live?
Underwood offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 977 and a median age of 29.5, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Underwood, IA?
32.6% of residents in Underwood 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 Underwood?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Underwood, IA: median home value is $227,400 (7% below national), median rent is $819/month, and median household income is $90,556. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Underwood?
The poverty rate in Underwood, IA is 2.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Underwood, IA?
Underwood's population is 4.1% White, 3.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.3% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 3.1% of residents are foreign-born.