Washington, IA
Population 7,314 · Iowa
About Washington, IA
Washington is a small town located in Iowa with a population of 7,314 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $56,536 per year, which is 25% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 39.6 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Washington features a median home value of $144,500, which is 41% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Washington one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $927, 20% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 3,222 total housing units, 60% are owner-occupied (1,854 units) and 40% are renter-occupied (1,245 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Washington shows an unemployment rate of 4.7%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 15.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Washington have an average one-way commute time of 17.9 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
21.5% of Washington 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 8.1% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 3.0% Asian residents, with 6.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Washington, IA
Compared to national averages, Washington has a median household income of $56,536 (25% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $144,500, which is 41% below the national median. Monthly rent at $927 is 20% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Washington's income is 17% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 9% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Washington, IA?
Washington offers affordable housing with a median home value of $144,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $927/month, and short commute times averaging just 17.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($56,536) that falls below the national average. However, Washington’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Washington has a population of 7,314 with a median age of 39.6 years. Compare Washington with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Washington
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Charles City | 7,321 | $56,734 | $118,900 | Compare |
| Hiawatha | 7,178 | $67,628 | $210,200 | Compare |
| Creston | 7,466 | $50,752 | $112,600 | Compare |
| Knoxville | 7,493 | $70,136 | $147,600 | Compare |
| Decorah | 7,597 | $62,177 | $234,600 | Compare |
| Clear Lake | 7,603 | $70,278 | $235,100 | Compare |
| Nevada | 6,952 | $75,221 | $177,800 | Compare |
| Webster City | 7,769 | $65,844 | $115,400 | 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 Washington With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Washington
What is the population of Washington, IA?
The population of Washington, IA is 7,314 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Iowa.
What is the median household income in Washington?
The median household income in Washington, IA is $56,536 per year, which is 25% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Washington?
The median home value in Washington, IA is $144,500, which is 41% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Washington?
The median monthly rent in Washington, IA is $927, which is 20% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Washington?
The unemployment rate in Washington, IA is 4.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Washington, IA a good place to live?
Washington offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 7,314 and a median age of 39.6, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Washington, IA?
21.5% of residents in Washington 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 Washington?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Washington, IA: median home value is $144,500 (41% below national), median rent is $927/month, and median household income is $56,536. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Washington?
The poverty rate in Washington, IA is 15.0%, 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 Washington, IA?
Washington's population is 8.1% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 3.0% Asian, and 1.0% two or more races. 6.5% of residents are foreign-born.