West Branch, IA
Population 2,526 · Iowa
About West Branch, IA
West Branch is a small town located in Iowa with a population of 2,526 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $87,891 per year, which is 17% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.7 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 West Branch features a median home value of $226,700, which is 7% below the national median of $244,900. This positions West Branch in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $958, 18% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,004 total housing units, 79% are owner-occupied (737 units) and 21% are renter-occupied (198 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in West Branch shows an unemployment rate of 0.4%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 11.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in West Branch have an average one-way commute time of 22.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
28.7% of West Branch residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 5.6% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.3% Asian residents, with 1.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How West Branch Ranks in Iowa
Cost of Living in West Branch, IA
Compared to national averages, West Branch has a median household income of $87,891 (17% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $226,700, which is 7% below the national median. Monthly rent at $958 is 18% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, West Branch's income is 29% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 71% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in West Branch, IA?
West Branch offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $87,891, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $226,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $958/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.4%, and a low poverty rate of 11.1%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 22.8 minutes.
West Branch has a population of 2,526 with a median age of 34.7 years. Compare West Branch with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near West Branch
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mitchellville | 2,557 | $78,816 | $190,200 | Compare |
| Cascade | 2,565 | $69,861 | $196,100 | Compare |
| Center Point | 2,575 | $92,500 | $215,800 | Compare |
| Jesup | 2,596 | $89,297 | $189,600 | Compare |
| Rockwell City | 2,449 | $61,563 | $91,300 | Compare |
| Hudson | 2,614 | $119,327 | $234,500 | Compare |
| Eldora | 2,622 | $72,107 | $108,800 | Compare |
| Belle Plaine | 2,412 | $70,517 | $111,600 | 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 West Branch With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about West Branch
What is the population of West Branch, IA?
The population of West Branch, IA is 2,526 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 West Branch?
The median household income in West Branch, IA is $87,891 per year, which is 17% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in West Branch?
The median home value in West Branch, IA is $226,700, which is 7% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in West Branch?
The median monthly rent in West Branch, IA is $958, which is 18% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in West Branch?
The unemployment rate in West Branch, IA is 0.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is West Branch, IA a good place to live?
West Branch offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 2,526 and a median age of 34.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is West Branch, IA?
28.7% of residents in West Branch 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 West Branch?
Key cost-of-living indicators for West Branch, IA: median home value is $226,700 (7% below national), median rent is $958/month, and median household income is $87,891. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in West Branch?
The poverty rate in West Branch, IA is 11.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is West Branch, IA?
West Branch's population is 5.6% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, and 1.0% two or more races. 1.0% of residents are foreign-born.