Zip Code 52242
IA · Population: 4,140
About Zip Code 52242
Zip code 52242 is located in Iowa and is home to approximately 4,140 residents. It receives an overall grade of D (score: 32/100), based on safety, affordability, quality of life, and employment metrics.
Crime rates in this area are roughly in line with national averages.
Housing costs are a challenge in this area, with home values at N/A and median rent of N/A/month against a median income of $41,776. Many residents face a significant housing cost burden.
Educational attainment is below the national average, with 0% of adults holding a bachelor's degree or higher.
The unemployment rate of 12.6% is above the national average, indicating a weaker local job market.
Scores are percentile-based: a score of 85 means this zip code ranks better than 85% of all US zip codes on that dimension. Data is sourced from the US Census Bureau (ACS 5-year estimates) and the FBI Uniform Crime Report.
Demographics & Economics
Score Breakdown
| Dimension | Score | Grade | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | 40 | C | Lower crime = higher score |
| Affordability | 31 | D | Lower cost relative to income = higher |
| Quality of Life | 31 | D | Education, commute, ownership |
| Jobs & Economy | 26 | F | Lower unemployment = higher |
| Overall | 32 | D | Weighted average |
Methodology
All scores are percentile-based (0–100): a score of 85 means this zip code ranks better than 85% of all US zip codes on that metric. Safety uses FBI Uniform Crime Report state-level data (Phase 2 will add zip-level granularity). Economic and demographic data is from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates (2022).