West Branch, IA
Population 2,526 · Iowa
About West Branch, IA
West Branch is a small community in Iowa with a population of 2,526 residents. The median household income is $87,891 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in West Branch is 34.7 years.
Housing in West Branch has a median home value of $226,700 and median monthly rent of $958. Of the 1,004 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 737 owner-occupied and 198 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in West Branch is 0.4% and the poverty rate is 11.1%. 28.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 22.8 minutes.
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.
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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 Census data.
What is the median household income in West Branch?
The median household income in West Branch, IA is $87,891 per year.
What is the median home value in West Branch?
The median home value in West Branch, IA is $226,700.
What is the average rent in West Branch?
The median monthly rent in West Branch, IA is $958.
What is the unemployment rate in West Branch?
The unemployment rate in West Branch, IA is 0.4%.