Charles City, IA
Population 7,321 · Iowa
About Charles City, IA
Charles City is a small community in Iowa with a population of 7,321 residents. The median household income is $56,734 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Charles City is 42.7 years.
Housing in Charles City has a median home value of $118,900 and median monthly rent of $628. Of the 3,621 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 2,149 owner-occupied and 1,118 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Charles City is 4.9% and the poverty rate is 13.4%. 15.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 14.6 minutes.
Cost of Living in Charles City, IA
Compared to national averages, Charles City has a median household income of $56,734 (25% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $118,900, which is 51% below the national median. Monthly rent at $628 is 46% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Charles City's income is 17% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 10% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Charles City, IA?
Charles City offers affordable housing with a median home value of $118,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $628/month, and short commute times averaging just 14.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($56,734) that falls below the national average. However, Charles City’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Charles City has a population of 7,321 with a median age of 42.7 years. Compare Charles City with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Charles City
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 7,314 | $56,536 | $144,500 | Compare |
| Hiawatha | 7,178 | $67,628 | $210,200 | Compare |
| Creston | 7,466 | $50,752 | $112,600 | Compare |
| Knoxville | 7,493 | $70,136 | $147,600 | Compare |
| Decorah | 7,597 | $62,177 | $234,600 | Compare |
| Clear Lake | 7,603 | $70,278 | $235,100 | Compare |
| Nevada | 6,952 | $75,221 | $177,800 | Compare |
| Webster City | 7,769 | $65,844 | $115,400 | 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 Charles City
What is the population of Charles City, IA?
The population of Charles City, IA is 7,321 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Charles City?
The median household income in Charles City, IA is $56,734 per year.
What is the median home value in Charles City?
The median home value in Charles City, IA is $118,900.
What is the average rent in Charles City?
The median monthly rent in Charles City, IA is $628.
What is the unemployment rate in Charles City?
The unemployment rate in Charles City, IA is 4.9%.