Zearing, IA
Population 584 · Iowa
About Zearing, IA
Zearing is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 584 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $67,031 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.2 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 Zearing features a median home value of $138,600, which is 43% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Zearing one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,125, 3% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 202 total housing units, 79% are owner-occupied (158 units) and 21% are renter-occupied (42 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Zearing shows an unemployment rate of 1.4%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 22.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Zearing have an average one-way commute time of 26.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
32.3% of Zearing 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 12.5% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.3% Asian residents, with 12.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Zearing, IA
Compared to national averages, Zearing has a median household income of $67,031 (11% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $138,600, which is 43% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,125 is 3% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Zearing's income is 1% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 5% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Zearing, IA?
Zearing offers affordable housing with a median home value of $138,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,125/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.4%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($67,031) that falls below the national average. However, Zearing’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Zearing has a population of 584 with a median age of 34.2 years. Compare Zearing with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Zearing
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colesburg | 585 | $50,000 | $103,700 | Compare |
| Everly | 586 | $55,192 | $104,400 | Compare |
| Hopkinton | 586 | $80,536 | $108,900 | Compare |
| Moravia | 587 | $53,750 | $113,600 | Compare |
| Martensdale | 588 | $53,750 | $176,400 | Compare |
| Crescent | 591 | $104,583 | $265,000 | Compare |
| Moulton | 577 | $56,806 | $51,300 | Compare |
| Whittemore | 576 | $77,054 | $88,700 | 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 Zearing With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Zearing
What is the population of Zearing, IA?
The population of Zearing, IA is 584 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 Zearing?
The median household income in Zearing, IA is $67,031 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Zearing?
The median home value in Zearing, IA is $138,600, which is 43% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Zearing?
The median monthly rent in Zearing, IA is $1,125, which is 3% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Zearing?
The unemployment rate in Zearing, IA is 1.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Zearing, IA a good place to live?
Zearing offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 584 and a median age of 34.2, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Zearing, IA?
32.3% of residents in Zearing 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 Zearing?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Zearing, IA: median home value is $138,600 (43% below national), median rent is $1,125/month, and median household income is $67,031. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Zearing?
The poverty rate in Zearing, IA is 22.3%, 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 Zearing, IA?
Zearing's population is 12.5% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, and 1.9% two or more races. 12.3% of residents are foreign-born.