Monroe County

As of the 2020 Census, Monroe County, Iowa, had a population of 7,577. The racial composition is approximately 96.2% White, 0.6% African American, 0.5% Native American, 0.4% Asian, and 1.8% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino individuals make up about 1.8% of the population. The median age is around 44.5 years. The county spans 434 square miles, with an average population density of roughly 17.5 people per square mile. Housing units total approximately 3,639, with an occupancy rate of 85.7%.

Monroe County, IA, has a median home value of approximately $90,000. Homeownership rate is around 81%, with median monthly housing costs for homeowners being about $800. For renters, the median gross rent is roughly $600 per month. The county has a mix of single-family homes, manufactured homes, and apartments, with a small but growing housing market. The vacancy rate is near 12%, providing some availability for potential buyers and renters. Population and housing density remain relatively low, reflecting rural characteristics.

Monroe County, IA, typically holds various local, state, and federal elections. Key positions include county supervisors, sheriff, auditor, treasurer, and more. For the latest election cycle:

• County Supervisors: There are generally three seats, with candidates frequently from both major parties.
• Sheriff: Strong competition, with usually 2-3 candidates.
• Auditor, Treasurer: Typically one candidate per major party, with occasional third-party or independent candidates.

For precise numerical values and current candidates, refer to Monroe County's official website or the Iowa Secretary of State's office. Detailed and up-to-date information is crucial as candidates and numbers can change with each election cycle.

Monroe County, IA, has an education attainment profile where approximately 91% of adults (25 and older) have a high school diploma or higher, according to the U.S. Census Bureau data. Around 18% of the population holds a bachelor's degree or higher. In comparison, the national average for high school graduation is about 88%, and 33% for bachelor's degrees. Iowa's state averages are somewhat higher than Monroe County, with 93% of adults having at least a high school diploma and around 29% holding a bachelor's degree or higher. This suggests that while Monroe County meets the national average in high school graduation rates, it falls under both the national and state averages for higher education attainment.

As of recent data, Monroe County, IA, has a labor force participation rate of around 62%. The county's unemployment rate is approximately 3.2%, which closely aligns with the national average of 3-4% but slightly above Iowa's state average of around 2.8%.

Top industries in Monroe County include agriculture, construction, manufacturing, and healthcare. Manufacturing is particularly notable, fueled by local employers like Clow Valve Company. The county's employment in agriculture and manufacturing is higher than both the national and state averages. Nationally, such sectors are overshadowed by services and technology, which dominate employment percentages.

Iowa, on the other hand, has a robust agricultural sector, but Monroe County's reliance on manufacturing is distinctive within the state. Healthcare and educational services also employ a significant portion of the Monroe County workforce, though not to the extent seen in more urbanized regions.

As of the most recent data, Monroe County, IA, has an average household income of approximately $54,000. In comparison, the average household income for Iowa is around $72,000, while the national average stands at about $87,864. Both state and national figures are notably higher than those in Monroe County.

Here's a summary table for clarity:

The average income in Monroe County is around 25% lower than the state average and approximately 39% lower than the national average.

As of the latest reports, Monroe County, Iowa, has a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. Here are some key statistics:

Overall, Monroe County enjoys a lower crime rate, making it a relatively safe place to live. The data reflects a community with minimal violent and property crime incidents, contributing to a peaceful environment.