Calmar, IA
Population 980 · Iowa
About Calmar, IA
Calmar is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 980 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $81,583 per year, which is 9% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.7 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Calmar features a median home value of $194,600, which is 21% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Calmar in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $684, 41% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 449 total housing units, 74% are owner-occupied (289 units) and 26% are renter-occupied (104 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Calmar shows an unemployment rate of 0.4%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 10.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Calmar have an average one-way commute time of 22.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
28.3% of Calmar residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 5.5% Asian residents, with 0.4% of the population being foreign-born.
How Calmar Ranks in Iowa
Cost of Living in Calmar, IA
Compared to national averages, Calmar has a median household income of $81,583 (9% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $194,600, which is 21% below the national median. Monthly rent at $684 is 41% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Calmar's income is 20% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 47% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Calmar, IA?
Calmar offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $81,583, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $194,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $684/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.4%, and a low poverty rate of 10.4%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 22.4 minutes.
Calmar has a population of 980 with a median age of 31.7 years. Compare Calmar with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Calmar
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Underwood | 977 | $90,556 | $227,400 | Compare |
| Afton | 991 | $57,232 | $99,700 | Compare |
| Elk Run Heights | 968 | $68,828 | $169,400 | Compare |
| Danville | 966 | $82,917 | $148,600 | Compare |
| Primghar | 965 | $77,813 | $135,500 | Compare |
| Mapleton | 997 | $52,955 | $116,400 | Compare |
| Gladbrook | 998 | $63,125 | $117,200 | Compare |
| Buffalo Center | 1,000 | $49,474 | $93,800 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Iowa
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Calmar With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Calmar
What is the population of Calmar, IA?
The population of Calmar, IA is 980 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Iowa.
What is the median household income in Calmar?
The median household income in Calmar, IA is $81,583 per year, which is 9% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Calmar?
The median home value in Calmar, IA is $194,600, which is 21% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Calmar?
The median monthly rent in Calmar, IA is $684, which is 41% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Calmar?
The unemployment rate in Calmar, IA is 0.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Calmar, IA a good place to live?
Calmar offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 980 and a median age of 31.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Calmar, IA?
28.3% of residents in Calmar 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 Calmar?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Calmar, IA: median home value is $194,600 (21% below national), median rent is $684/month, and median household income is $81,583. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Calmar?
The poverty rate in Calmar, IA is 10.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Calmar, IA?
Calmar's population is 0.0% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 5.5% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.4% of residents are foreign-born.