West Liberty, IA
Population 3,795 · Iowa
About West Liberty, IA
West Liberty is a small town located in Iowa with a population of 3,795 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $66,132 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.6 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 Liberty features a median home value of $169,500, which is 31% below the national median of $244,900. This positions West Liberty in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $871, 25% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,374 total housing units, 72% are owner-occupied (955 units) and 28% are renter-occupied (366 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in West Liberty shows an unemployment rate of 5.0%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 7.7%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in West Liberty have an average one-way commute time of 20 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.3% of West Liberty 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 26.6% White, 2.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, and 23.1% Asian residents, with 23.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in West Liberty, IA
Compared to national averages, West Liberty has a median household income of $66,132 (12% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $169,500, which is 31% below the national median. Monthly rent at $871 is 25% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, West Liberty's income is 3% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 28% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in West Liberty, IA?
West Liberty offers affordable housing with a median home value of $169,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $871/month, and a low poverty rate of 7.7%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 20 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($66,132) that falls below the national average. However, West Liberty’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
West Liberty has a population of 3,795 with a median age of 34.6 years. Compare West Liberty with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near West Liberty
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Waukon | 3,796 | $56,250 | $133,700 | Compare |
| Carter Lake | 3,773 | $75,037 | $161,200 | Compare |
| Cresco | 3,901 | $60,769 | $105,200 | Compare |
| Albia | 3,688 | $67,791 | $132,500 | Compare |
| Emmetsburg | 3,651 | $57,353 | $114,600 | Compare |
| Eagle Grove | 3,588 | $58,458 | $95,100 | Compare |
| Osage | 3,578 | $62,309 | $141,800 | Compare |
| Saylorville | 3,559 | $80,250 | $287,700 | 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 Liberty With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about West Liberty
What is the population of West Liberty, IA?
The population of West Liberty, IA is 3,795 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 Liberty?
The median household income in West Liberty, IA is $66,132 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in West Liberty?
The median home value in West Liberty, IA is $169,500, which is 31% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in West Liberty?
The median monthly rent in West Liberty, IA is $871, which is 25% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in West Liberty?
The unemployment rate in West Liberty, IA is 5.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is West Liberty, IA a good place to live?
West Liberty offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 3,795 and a median age of 34.6, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is West Liberty, IA?
15.3% of residents in West Liberty 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 Liberty?
Key cost-of-living indicators for West Liberty, IA: median home value is $169,500 (31% below national), median rent is $871/month, and median household income is $66,132. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in West Liberty?
The poverty rate in West Liberty, IA is 7.7%, 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 Liberty, IA?
West Liberty's population is 26.6% White, 2.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, 23.1% Asian, and 1.3% two or more races. 23.5% of residents are foreign-born.