Union, IA
Population 391 · Iowa
About Union, IA
Union is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 391 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $60,000 per year, which is 20% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 49.9 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 Union features a median home value of $72,600, which is 70% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Union 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 226 total housing units, 86% are owner-occupied (170 units) and 14% are renter-occupied (28 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Union shows an unemployment rate of 2.3%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 15.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Union have an average one-way commute time of 20.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.8% of Union 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 0.3% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.3% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Union, IA
Compared to national averages, Union has a median household income of $60,000 (20% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $72,600, which is 70% below the national median. Monthly rent at $775 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Union's income is 12% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 45% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Union, IA?
Union offers affordable housing with a median home value of $72,600, 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 2.3%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 20.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($60,000) that falls below the national average. However, Union’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Union has a population of 391 with a median age of 49.9 years. Compare Union 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 Union
What is the population of Union, IA?
The population of Union, IA is 391 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 Union?
The median household income in Union, IA is $60,000 per year, which is 20% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Union?
The median home value in Union, IA is $72,600, which is 70% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Union?
The median monthly rent in Union, IA is $775, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Union?
The unemployment rate in Union, IA is 2.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Union, IA a good place to live?
Union offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 391 and a median age of 49.9, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Union, IA?
15.8% of residents in Union 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 Union?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Union, IA: median home value is $72,600 (70% below national), median rent is $775/month, and median household income is $60,000. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Union?
The poverty rate in Union, IA is 15.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Union, IA?
Union's population is 0.3% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.