Wadena, IA
Population 206 · Iowa
About Wadena, IA
Wadena is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 206 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $48,438 per year, which is 36% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 48.9 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 Wadena features a median home value of $89,300, which is 64% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Wadena one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $594, 49% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 115 total housing units, 84% are owner-occupied (80 units) and 16% are renter-occupied (15 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Wadena shows an unemployment rate of 4.2%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 13.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Wadena have an average one-way commute time of 34 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.9% of Wadena 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, 0.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Wadena, IA
Compared to national averages, Wadena has a median household income of $48,438 (36% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $89,300, which is 64% below the national median. Monthly rent at $594 is 49% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Wadena's income is 29% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 32% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Wadena, IA?
Wadena offers affordable housing with a median home value of $89,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $594/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($48,438) that falls below the national average. However, Wadena’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Wadena has a population of 206 with a median age of 48.9 years. Compare Wadena with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
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Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
Demographics
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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 Wadena
What is the population of Wadena, IA?
The population of Wadena, IA is 206 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 Wadena?
The median household income in Wadena, IA is $48,438 per year, which is 36% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Wadena?
The median home value in Wadena, IA is $89,300, which is 64% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Wadena?
The median monthly rent in Wadena, IA is $594, which is 49% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Wadena?
The unemployment rate in Wadena, IA is 4.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Wadena, IA a good place to live?
Wadena offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 206 and a median age of 48.9, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Wadena, IA?
14.9% of residents in Wadena 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 Wadena?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Wadena, IA: median home value is $89,300 (64% below national), median rent is $594/month, and median household income is $48,438. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Wadena?
The poverty rate in Wadena, IA is 13.7%, 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 Wadena, IA?
Wadena's population is 0.0% White, 0.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.5% of residents are foreign-born.