Central City, IA
Population 1,266 · Iowa
About Central City, IA
Central City is a small town located in Iowa with a population of 1,266 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $81,607 per year, which is 9% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 37.2 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Central City features a median home value of $166,400, which is 32% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Central City in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $715, 39% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 573 total housing units, 79% are owner-occupied (410 units) and 21% are renter-occupied (109 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Central City shows an unemployment rate of 4.2%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 4.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Central City have an average one-way commute time of 29.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
18.1% of Central City 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 1.2% White, 0.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.2% of the population being foreign-born.
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 US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Iowa.
What is the median household income in Central City?
The median household income in Central City, IA is $81,607 per year, which is 9% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Central City?
The median home value in Central City, IA is $166,400, which is 32% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Central City?
The median monthly rent in Central City, IA is $715, which is 39% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Central City?
The unemployment rate in Central City, IA is 4.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Central City, IA a good place to live?
Central City offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,266 and a median age of 37.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Central City, IA?
18.1% of residents in Central City 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 Central City?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Central City, IA: median home value is $166,400 (32% below national), median rent is $715/month, and median household income is $81,607. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Central City?
The poverty rate in Central City, IA is 4.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Central City, IA?
Central City's population is 1.2% White, 0.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.2% of residents are foreign-born.