Des Moines Sun

Of the 488,871 citizens living in Polk County in 2021, 95.7% said they were only one race, while 4.3% said they were two or more races, according to U.S. Census Bureau data obtained in June.

The most prevalent racial group among citizens in Polk County who reported being of a single race in 2021 was white, comprising 81.4% or 397,715 individuals. Following them, African American accounted for 7.2% and totaled 35,109 individuals.

The percentage of multiracial residents in Polk County is 0.4% higher than the state average, which stands at 3.9%.

An agency of the U.S. Federal Statistical System, the Census Bureau is responsible for compiling statistical facts about the American people, places and economy. Data for this story was compiled from the bureau's American Community Survey. Information from the survey helps to determine how federal and state funds are distributed. These funds significantly influence community services, education, and infrastructure in areas like Polk County.

	Estimated Total
White	397,715
African American	35,109
Asian	24,135
Multiracial	21,203
Some Other Race	9,213
American Indian or Alaska Native	1,114
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander	382

Source: US Census Bureau