Decatur County
countyDecatur County, located in south-central Iowa along the Missouri border, is characterized by its rolling hills and agricultural landscape. The county's population was 7,645 as of the 2020 Census. The county seat is Leon. Decatur County offers a blend of rural charm and outdoor recreational opportunities, making it an ideal location for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle. Agriculture forms the backbone of Decatur County's economy. Key industries include educational services, manufacturing, and healthcare and social assistance. Graceland University, located in Lamoni, is a major educational institution in the county. Decatur County is named for Stephen Decatur Jr., a naval hero of the War of 1812. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Nine Eagles State Park, Little River Lake, and Slip Bluff Park. These areas provide opportunities for boating, camping, fishing, and hiking, enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
Decatur County, Iowa
- Classification
- County
- Country
- United States
- County
- Decatur County
- Region
- South-central Iowa
- Total Area
- 533 sq mi
- Land Area
- 532 sq mi
- Water Area
- 1.6 sq mi
- Latitude
- 40.7414
- Longitude
- -93.7808
- Notable Features
- Rolling hills · Little River Lake · Nine Eagles State Park
- Neighboring Areas
- Clarke County, IA · Lucas County, IA · Ringgold County, IA · Union County, IA · Wayne County, IA · Harrison County, MO · Mercer County, MO
- Population (2020)
- 7,645
- Est. Population (2024)
- 7,656
- Median Age
- 36.2
- Median Income
- $57,146
- Poverty Rate
- 14.56%
- Owner-Occupied
- 68%
- Racial & Ethnic Composition
- The racial makeup of the county was 90.9% White (Non-Hispanic), 2.19% Two Races Excluding Other, & Three or More Races (Non-Hispanic), 2% White (Hispanic), and 1.63% Black or African American (Non-Hispanic).
- Unemployment Rate
- 2.6%
- Economic Profile
- Dependent on agriculture
- Employment Sectors
- Educational Services · Manufacturing · Health Care & Social Assistance
- Graduation Rate
- 89.1%
- School Districts
- Central Decatur Community School District · Lamoni Community School District · Mormon Trail Community School District
- Colleges & Universities
- Graceland University-Lamoni
- Outdoor Access
- Yes
- Major Recreation Areas
- Nine Eagles State Park · Little River Lake · Slip Bluff Park
- Parks & Trails
- Little River Recreation Area
- Founded
- 1846
- Incorporated
- 1850
- Named After
- Stephen Decatur Jr.
- Historical Significance
- Named for a naval hero of the War of 1812
- Key Events
- Organized in 1850 · County seat designated as Decatur City in 1851, relocated to Leon in 1853