Shelby, IN
Population 259 · Indiana
About Shelby, IN
Shelby is a small community located in Indiana with a population of 259 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $54,500 per year, which is 27% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 65.6 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Shelby features a median home value of $128,100, which is 48% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Shelby one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 144 total housing units, 88% are owner-occupied (127 units) and 12% are renter-occupied (17 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Shelby shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 14.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Shelby have an average one-way commute time of 0 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
0.0% of Shelby residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Shelby, IN
Compared to national averages, Shelby has a median household income of $54,500 (27% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $128,100, which is 48% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Indiana, Shelby's income is 21% below the state average of $69,330, and home values are 22% below the state median of $163,409.
Why Live in Shelby, IN?
Shelby offers affordable housing with a median home value of $128,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 0 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($54,500) that falls below the national average. However, Shelby’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Shelby has a population of 259 with a median age of 65.6 years. Compare Shelby with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Indiana.
Similar Cities Near Shelby
Cities in Indiana with a similar population size.
Demographics
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Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Indiana
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Shelby
What is the population of Shelby, IN?
The population of Shelby, IN is 259 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Indiana.
What is the median household income in Shelby?
The median household income in Shelby, IN is $54,500 per year, which is 27% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Shelby?
The median home value in Shelby, IN is $128,100, which is 48% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Shelby?
The median monthly rent in Shelby, IN is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Shelby?
The unemployment rate in Shelby, IN is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Shelby, IN a good place to live?
Shelby offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 259 and a median age of 65.6, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Shelby, IN?
0.0% of residents in Shelby aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Shelby?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Shelby, IN: median home value is $128,100 (48% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $54,500. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Shelby?
The poverty rate in Shelby, IN is 14.7%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Shelby, IN?
Shelby's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.