Runnells is a city in the southeastern corner of Polk County, Iowa, United States.

It was named for John S. Runnells, a former editorial writer for the Iowa State Register and private secretary for Governor Samuel Merrill.

[4] According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.43 square miles (1.11 km2), all land.

There were 189 housing units at an average density of 456.5 per square mile (176.3/km2).

22.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

There were 149 housing units at an average density of 351.7 per square mile (135.8/km2).

The racial makeup of the city was 98.58% White, 0.28% Native American, and 1.14% from two or more races.

29.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

None of the families and 2.8% of the population were living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and 9.3% of those over 64.