Carson, IA
Population 768 · Iowa
About Carson, IA
Carson is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 768 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $70,703 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 42.4 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 Carson features a median home value of $172,600, which is 30% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Carson in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $731, 37% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 318 total housing units, 81% are owner-occupied (251 units) and 19% are renter-occupied (60 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Carson shows an unemployment rate of 4.7%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 6.9%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Carson have an average one-way commute time of 32.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
24.4% of Carson 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 0.9% White, 3.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Carson, IA
Compared to national averages, Carson has a median household income of $70,703 (6% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $172,600, which is 30% below the national median. Monthly rent at $731 is 37% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Carson's income is 4% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 31% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Carson, IA?
Carson offers affordable housing with a median home value of $172,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $731/month, and a low poverty rate of 6.9%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($70,703) that falls below the national average. However, Carson’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Carson has a population of 768 with a median age of 42.4 years. Compare Carson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Carson
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Correctionville | 768 | $51,125 | $83,000 | Compare |
| Oxford | 766 | $73,869 | $202,200 | Compare |
| Ruthven | 766 | $58,750 | $103,400 | Compare |
| Readlyn | 764 | $83,393 | $164,600 | Compare |
| Latimer | 763 | $71,250 | $101,500 | Compare |
| Milo | 773 | $76,250 | $145,400 | Compare |
| New Hartford | 763 | $67,054 | $112,100 | Compare |
| Manilla | 761 | $66,875 | $94,800 | 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 Carson With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Carson
What is the population of Carson, IA?
The population of Carson, IA is 768 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 Carson?
The median household income in Carson, IA is $70,703 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Carson?
The median home value in Carson, IA is $172,600, which is 30% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Carson?
The median monthly rent in Carson, IA is $731, which is 37% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Carson?
The unemployment rate in Carson, IA is 4.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Carson, IA a good place to live?
Carson offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 768 and a median age of 42.4, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Carson, IA?
24.4% of residents in Carson 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 Carson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Carson, IA: median home value is $172,600 (30% below national), median rent is $731/month, and median household income is $70,703. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Carson?
The poverty rate in Carson, IA is 6.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Carson, IA?
Carson's population is 0.9% White, 3.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.5% of residents are foreign-born.