Carter Lake, IA
Population 3,773 · Iowa
About Carter Lake, IA
Carter Lake is a small community in Iowa with a population of 3,773 residents. The median household income is $75,037 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Carter Lake is 40.1 years.
Housing in Carter Lake has a median home value of $161,200 and median monthly rent of $1,115. Of the 1,461 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 1,171 owner-occupied and 218 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Carter Lake is 4.7% and the poverty rate is 15.2%. 12.9% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 19.4 minutes.
Cost of Living in Carter Lake, IA
Compared to national averages, Carter Lake has a median household income of $75,037 (0% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $161,200, which is 34% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,115 is 4% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Carter Lake's income is 10% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 22% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Carter Lake, IA?
Carter Lake offers affordable housing with a median home value of $161,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,115/month, and short commute times averaging just 19.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($75,037) that falls below the national average. However, Carter Lake’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Carter Lake has a population of 3,773 with a median age of 40.1 years. Compare Carter Lake with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Carter Lake
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Liberty | 3,795 | $66,132 | $169,500 | Compare |
| Waukon | 3,796 | $56,250 | $133,700 | Compare |
| Albia | 3,688 | $67,791 | $132,500 | Compare |
| Emmetsburg | 3,651 | $57,353 | $114,600 | Compare |
| Cresco | 3,901 | $60,769 | $105,200 | Compare |
| Eagle Grove | 3,588 | $58,458 | $95,100 | Compare |
| Osage | 3,578 | $62,309 | $141,800 | Compare |
| Saylorville | 3,559 | $80,250 | $287,700 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Carter Lake
What is the population of Carter Lake, IA?
The population of Carter Lake, IA is 3,773 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Carter Lake?
The median household income in Carter Lake, IA is $75,037 per year.
What is the median home value in Carter Lake?
The median home value in Carter Lake, IA is $161,200.
What is the average rent in Carter Lake?
The median monthly rent in Carter Lake, IA is $1,115.
What is the unemployment rate in Carter Lake?
The unemployment rate in Carter Lake, IA is 4.7%.