Milford

Milford, Iowa, is the Southern Gateway to the Iowa Great Lakes

Welcome to Milford, Iowa, where the beauty of the Iowa Great Lakes meets small-town charm. As the Southern Gateway to the Iowa Great Lakes, Milford offers a welcoming community with a range of amenities and activities to enjoy.

Community Life

Milford is home to the mythical University of Okoboji and is proud of its title as The Gateway to the Iowa Great Lakes. The city boasts numerous city parks, including Buchanan, Calkins, Florence, and Memorial, providing ample green spaces for recreation and relaxation. Milford is also known for its high-standard school system and is the proud home of the Okoboji Pioneers.

Quality of Life

Living in Milford is a pleasure. With a population of just over 3,000 people, the town offers a close-knit community where neighbors become friends. Surrounded by the rolling hills of western Iowa, residents enjoy a range of outdoor activities year-round, from fishing and camping to hiking in nearby lakes and state parks. The town also hosts a variety of festivals and events, adding to its vibrant community spirit.

Business and Entrepreneurship

Milford has a thriving business community, with a diverse range of industrial, retail, and professional businesses. The town's economy is supported by manufacturing, farming, and locally owned companies, providing stability and growth opportunities. With over 300 businesses calling Milford home, the town offers extensive resources to support local entrepreneurs and businesses.

Reasons for Businesses to Relocate to Milford

Milford's local government is known for being friendly toward business growth and development. Affordable utility prices and robust infrastructure support make it an ideal location for businesses looking to relocate or expand. With growing local business opportunities, Milford is a place where businesses can thrive.

Join us in Milford, Iowa, and experience the best of small-town living in the heart of the Iowa Great Lakes. For information concerning economic development incentives, programs, and more please get in touch with the Milford City Clerk at 712-338-2741.

Population

Total Population

3,692

Population
Growth Rate

0.91%

Median Age

43

Diversity Index

23.500

Source: ESRI, 2026-08-31

Housing & Income

Households

1,608

Total Housing Units

1,797


Owner Occupied

1,163

Renter Occupied

445

Vacant

189

Median Home Value

$259,888


Average Home Value

$366,010

Income
Growth Rate

Median
Household Income

0.00%


Per Capita Income

3.33%

Income Projection

Median Household

$68,738 $89,360


Average Household

$103,428 $120,931


Per Capita

$45,244 $53,287

Source: ESRI, 2026-08-31

Workforce

Total Businesses

173

Total Employed

1,360

Workers 16+

1,815

2026 HealthCare / Social Assistance

cp-industries

Businesses

19

Employed

225

2026 Retail Trade Businesses

cp-industries

Businesses

21

Employed

186

2026 Accommodation / Food Service

cp-industries

Businesses

14

Employed

178

2026 Food Service / Drinking Est.

cp-industries

Businesses

10

Employed

160

2026 Educational Services - Businesses

cp-industries

Businesses

3

Employed

142

2026 Food & Beverage Retailers

N

Businesses

3

Employed

113

Some
High School

58

Graduated
High School

676

Associates
Degree

460

Bachelor's
Degree

492

Graduate
Degree

129

Average Commute Time

0 min.



Resident Commuters

1,495

Non-Resident Commuters

286

Drive Alone

1,406

Carpooled

233

Public

0

Work At Home

73

Source: ESRI, 2026-08-31