Vail, IA
Population 431 · Iowa
About Vail, IA
Vail is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 431 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $66,458 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.8 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 Vail features a median home value of $82,100, which is 66% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Vail one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $665, 43% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 159 total housing units, 92% are owner-occupied (119 units) and 8% are renter-occupied (10 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Vail shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 24.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Vail have an average one-way commute time of 27.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.9% of Vail 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 35.7% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 3.9% Asian residents, with 13.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Vail, IA
Compared to national averages, Vail has a median household income of $66,458 (12% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $82,100, which is 66% below the national median. Monthly rent at $665 is 43% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Vail's income is 2% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 38% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Vail, IA?
Vail offers affordable housing with a median home value of $82,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $665/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($66,458) that falls below the national average. However, Vail’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Vail has a population of 431 with a median age of 35.8 years. Compare Vail with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Vail
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Charlotte | 431 | $69,792 | $95,500 | Compare |
| Galva | 432 | $70,714 | $80,700 | Compare |
| Marquette | 432 | $38,125 | $137,000 | Compare |
| Martelle | 432 | $95,000 | $130,000 | Compare |
| Scranton | 434 | $60,000 | $58,600 | Compare |
| McCallsburg | 435 | $72,898 | $169,000 | Compare |
| Silver City | 435 | $68,214 | $139,000 | Compare |
| Breda | 436 | $59,469 | $133,600 | 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 Vail With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Vail
What is the population of Vail, IA?
The population of Vail, IA is 431 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 Vail?
The median household income in Vail, IA is $66,458 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Vail?
The median home value in Vail, IA is $82,100, which is 66% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Vail?
The median monthly rent in Vail, IA is $665, which is 43% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Vail?
The unemployment rate in Vail, IA is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Vail, IA a good place to live?
Vail offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 431 and a median age of 35.8, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Vail, IA?
15.9% of residents in Vail 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 Vail?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Vail, IA: median home value is $82,100 (66% below national), median rent is $665/month, and median household income is $66,458. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Vail?
The poverty rate in Vail, IA is 24.4%, 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 Vail, IA?
Vail's population is 35.7% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 3.9% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 13.0% of residents are foreign-born.