Chariton, IA
Population 4,235 · Iowa
About Chariton, IA
Chariton is a small community in Iowa with a population of 4,235 residents. The median household income is $52,109 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Chariton is 40.5 years.
Housing in Chariton has a median home value of $84,200 and median monthly rent of $716. Of the 1,944 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 1,233 owner-occupied and 592 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Chariton is 6.0% and the poverty rate is 21.3%. 12.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 15.1 minutes.
Cost of Living in Chariton, IA
Compared to national averages, Chariton has a median household income of $52,109 (31% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $84,200, which is 66% below the national median. Monthly rent at $716 is 38% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Chariton's income is 23% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 36% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Chariton, IA?
Chariton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $84,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $716/month, and short commute times averaging just 15.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($52,109) that falls below the national average. However, Chariton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Chariton has a population of 4,235 with a median age of 40.5 years. Compare Chariton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Chariton
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forest City | 4,280 | $62,917 | $136,400 | Compare |
| Carlisle | 4,187 | $98,333 | $208,100 | Compare |
| Jefferson | 4,164 | $54,286 | $126,900 | Compare |
| Hampton | 4,311 | $48,922 | $91,900 | Compare |
| Dyersville | 4,357 | $72,768 | $219,800 | Compare |
| Rock Valley | 4,061 | $67,012 | $225,800 | Compare |
| Monticello | 4,055 | $67,788 | $160,500 | Compare |
| Huxley | 4,440 | $122,716 | $296,100 | 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 Chariton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Chariton
What is the population of Chariton, IA?
The population of Chariton, IA is 4,235 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Chariton?
The median household income in Chariton, IA is $52,109 per year.
What is the median home value in Chariton?
The median home value in Chariton, IA is $84,200.
What is the average rent in Chariton?
The median monthly rent in Chariton, IA is $716.
What is the unemployment rate in Chariton?
The unemployment rate in Chariton, IA is 6.0%.