Central City, IA
Population 1,266 · Iowa
About Central City, IA
Central City is a small community in Iowa with a population of 1,266 residents. The median household income is $81,607 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Central City is 37.2 years.
Housing in Central City has a median home value of $166,400 and median monthly rent of $715. Of the 573 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 410 owner-occupied and 109 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Central City is 4.2% and the poverty rate is 4.1%. 18.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 29.9 minutes.
Cost of Living in Central City, IA
Compared to national averages, Central City has a median household income of $81,607 (9% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $166,400, which is 32% below the national median. Monthly rent at $715 is 39% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Central City's income is 20% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 26% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Central City, IA?
Central City offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $81,607, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $166,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $715/month. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 4.1%, better than the national average.
Central City has a population of 1,266 with a median age of 37.2 years. Compare Central City with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Central City
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dike | 1,258 | $88,523 | $235,900 | Compare |
| Montezuma | 1,257 | $63,375 | $157,800 | Compare |
| Tripoli | 1,256 | $75,988 | $116,200 | Compare |
| Baxter | 1,251 | $60,625 | $162,300 | Compare |
| Elkader | 1,249 | $61,786 | $134,300 | Compare |
| Clarksville | 1,248 | $55,781 | $114,200 | Compare |
| Lone Tree | 1,285 | $80,294 | $170,700 | Compare |
| Manly | 1,288 | $67,083 | $110,900 | 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 Central City With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Central City
What is the population of Central City, IA?
The population of Central City, IA is 1,266 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Central City?
The median household income in Central City, IA is $81,607 per year.
What is the median home value in Central City?
The median home value in Central City, IA is $166,400.
What is the average rent in Central City?
The median monthly rent in Central City, IA is $715.
What is the unemployment rate in Central City?
The unemployment rate in Central City, IA is 4.2%.