Van Wert, IA
Population 131 · Iowa
About Van Wert, IA
Van Wert is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 131 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $58,750 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 56.6 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 Van Wert features a median home value of $62,300, which is 75% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Van Wert one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $688, 41% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 86 total housing units, 87% are owner-occupied (61 units) and 13% are renter-occupied (9 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Van Wert shows an unemployment rate of 2.6%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 6.9%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Van Wert have an average one-way commute time of 32.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
7.1% of Van Wert 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 0.0% White, 0.8% 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 Van Wert, IA
Compared to national averages, Van Wert has a median household income of $58,750 (22% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $62,300, which is 75% below the national median. Monthly rent at $688 is 41% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Van Wert's income is 14% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 53% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Van Wert, IA?
Van Wert offers affordable housing with a median home value of $62,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $688/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.6%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 6.9%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($58,750) that falls below the national average. However, Van Wert’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Van Wert has a population of 131 with a median age of 56.6 years. Compare Van Wert with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
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Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Van Wert
What is the population of Van Wert, IA?
The population of Van Wert, IA is 131 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 Van Wert?
The median household income in Van Wert, IA is $58,750 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Van Wert?
The median home value in Van Wert, IA is $62,300, which is 75% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Van Wert?
The median monthly rent in Van Wert, IA is $688, which is 41% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Van Wert?
The unemployment rate in Van Wert, IA is 2.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Van Wert, IA a good place to live?
Van Wert offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 131 and a median age of 56.6, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Van Wert, IA?
7.1% of residents in Van Wert 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 Van Wert?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Van Wert, IA: median home value is $62,300 (75% below national), median rent is $688/month, and median household income is $58,750. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Van Wert?
The poverty rate in Van Wert, IA is 6.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Van Wert, IA?
Van Wert's population is 0.0% White, 0.8% 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.