Iowa is renowned for its agriculture, hospitality, and natural splendor, yet not all its towns enjoy prosperity. Some grapple with declining populations, economic stagnation, and social challenges. This blog delves into five Iowa towns experiencing an exodus, as evidenced by the latest U.S. Census data and other reliable sources.
Hamburg
Situated in Fremont County, southwestern Iowa, Hamburg was once thriving with a railroad, coal mine, and meatpacking plant. However, floods, fires, and closures have taken a toll. Its population has dwindled from 1,187 in 2010 to 1,024 in 2020, marking a 13.7% decline. Additionally, Hamburg faces a high poverty rate of 23.9%, a median income of $36,250, and a median home value of $64,500.
Keokuk
Found in Lee County, southeastern Iowa, Keokuk was a major industrial hub with a dam, power plant, steel mill, and riverboat port. Deindustrialization, competition, and environmental issues have led to a population drop from 10,780 in 2010 to 9,989 in 2020, a 7.3% decrease. Keokuk also grapples with a high poverty rate of 22.4%, a median income of $38,636, and a median home value of $68,900.
Centerville
As the county seat of Appanoose County, south-central Iowa, Centerville once thrived with a robust mining industry and vibrant downtown. However, mining decline, business loss, and an aging population have led to a population reduction from 5,528 in 2010 to 5,086 in 2020, an 8% decrease. Centerville also faces a high poverty rate of 20.9%, a median income of $37,500, and a median home value of $72,600.
Oelwein
Located in Fayette County, northeastern Iowa, Oelwein was a flourishing railroad town with a diverse economy. Downsizing of the railroad, factory closures, and youth outmigration have resulted in a population decline from 6,415 in 2010 to 5,794 in 2020, a 9.7% decrease. Oelwein contends with a high poverty rate of 19.8%, a median income of $39,583, and a median home value of $66,800.
Emmetsburg
As the county seat of Palo Alto County, northwestern Iowa, Emmetsburg, with its Irish heritage, hosts an annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration and boasts a renewable energy industry. Despite this, population loss, economic challenges, and social issues have caused a drop from 3,904 in 2010 to 3,494 in 2020, a 10.5% decrease. Emmetsburg also contends with a high poverty rate of 18.4%, a median income of $42,500, and a median home value of $82,300.
Conclusion
Iowa, while offering charm and opportunities, grapples with challenges in certain towns, including population decline, economic struggles, and social issues. This blog has shed light on five Iowa towns—Hamburg, Keokuk, Centerville, Oelwein, and Emmetsburg—that are witnessing an exodus, based on the latest U.S. Census data and reliable sources. Understanding the reasons behind their decline provides valuable insights into the complexities these communities face. Thank you for reading!