Storm Lake is a city in and the county seat of Buena Vista County, Iowa, United States. The population was 11,269 in the 2020 census, an increase from 10,076 in the 2000 census. Located along the northern shore of the Storm Lake reservoir, the city is home to Buena Vista University, King's Pointe Waterpark Resort, the Living Heritage Tree Museum, and the Santa's Castle holiday attraction. It is the principal city of the Storm Lake micropolitan area. History Storm Lake was incorporated in 1873. The city of Storm Lake was named from the lake where it is said a trapper experienced a severe storm. A more romantic legend claims the lake took its name after two star-crossed lovers from opposed Native American bands paddled out for a secret rendezvous, only to be drowned as a sudden storm blew in. As of the 2020 census, Storm Lake was the most ethnically diverse city in Iowa, with over 60% of the population self identifying as non-white. Additionally, 86.5% of students enrolled in the public school district are non-Caucasian. Storm Lake’s diversity is the result of many factors, including refugee resettlement programs and an abundance of meat packing jobs drawing migrant workers to the town. Geography Storm Lake is located in the northwestern part of the state, along its namesake Storm Lake. Much of the lakefront is open to the public in parks and preserves. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of , all land. Climate Demographics 2020 census As of the 2022 U.S. Census, Storm Lake's population was estimated at 11,269, up from 10,600 for the 2010 Census and 10,078 in 2000. Citing steady growth and other sources, city officials suggest that an accurate population count would be 13,000 or more. The community is considered one of the state's most ethnically diverse. The community celebrates its populations from around the world in a Parade of Nations each July 4 and public art installations. The median home valuation is $142,000, median rent is $695 per month. Median household income is estimated at just under $49,000. The community has an estimated 250 businesses. Economy Tyson Foods operates a large hog slaughterhouse, meat packing plant, and turkey processing plant in the city. Arts and culture Living Heritage Tree Museum is located on the shore of Storm Lake, and contains a library and the Witter Art Gallery Santa's Castle