Wesley, IA
Population 356 · Iowa
About Wesley, IA
Wesley is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 356 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $65,625 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 41.3 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Wesley features a median home value of $88,900, which is 64% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Wesley one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $625, 46% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 158 total housing units, 89% are owner-occupied (136 units) and 11% are renter-occupied (16 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Wesley shows an unemployment rate of 4.4%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 13.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Wesley have an average one-way commute time of 20.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
12.4% of Wesley 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, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.3% Asian residents, with 7.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Wesley, IA
Compared to national averages, Wesley has a median household income of $65,625 (13% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $88,900, which is 64% below the national median. Monthly rent at $625 is 46% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Wesley's income is 3% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 33% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Wesley, IA?
Wesley offers affordable housing with a median home value of $88,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $625/month, and short commute times averaging just 20.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($65,625) that falls below the national average. However, Wesley’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Wesley has a population of 356 with a median age of 41.3 years. Compare Wesley with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Wesley
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
Demographics
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Economy & Education
Housing
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 Wesley
What is the population of Wesley, IA?
The population of Wesley, IA is 356 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 Wesley?
The median household income in Wesley, IA is $65,625 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Wesley?
The median home value in Wesley, IA is $88,900, which is 64% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Wesley?
The median monthly rent in Wesley, IA is $625, which is 46% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Wesley?
The unemployment rate in Wesley, IA is 4.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Wesley, IA a good place to live?
Wesley offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 356 and a median age of 41.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Wesley, IA?
12.4% of residents in Wesley 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 Wesley?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Wesley, IA: median home value is $88,900 (64% below national), median rent is $625/month, and median household income is $65,625. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Wesley?
The poverty rate in Wesley, IA is 13.5%, 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 Wesley, IA?
Wesley's population is 8.1% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 7.9% of residents are foreign-born.