Chelsea, IA
Population 342 · Iowa
About Chelsea, IA
Chelsea is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 342 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $32,188 per year, which is 57% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.5 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Chelsea features a median home value of $43,100, which is 82% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Chelsea one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $681, 41% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 155 total housing units, 94% are owner-occupied (120 units) and 6% are renter-occupied (7 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Chelsea shows an unemployment rate of 3.4%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 35.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Chelsea have an average one-way commute time of 42.3 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
5.8% of Chelsea 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 7.3% White, 14.6% Hispanic or Latino, 3.5% Black or African American, and 3.2% Asian residents, with 24.9% of the population being foreign-born.
How Chelsea Ranks in Iowa
Cost of Living in Chelsea, IA
Compared to national averages, Chelsea has a median household income of $32,188 (57% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $43,100, which is 82% below the national median. Monthly rent at $681 is 41% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Chelsea's income is 53% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 67% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Chelsea, IA?
Chelsea offers affordable housing with a median home value of $43,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $681/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.4%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($32,188) that falls below the national average. However, Chelsea’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Chelsea has a population of 342 with a median age of 35.5 years. Compare Chelsea with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Chelsea
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
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 Chelsea With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Chelsea
What is the population of Chelsea, IA?
The population of Chelsea, IA is 342 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Iowa.
What is the median household income in Chelsea?
The median household income in Chelsea, IA is $32,188 per year, which is 57% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Chelsea?
The median home value in Chelsea, IA is $43,100, which is 82% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Chelsea?
The median monthly rent in Chelsea, IA is $681, which is 41% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Chelsea?
The unemployment rate in Chelsea, IA is 3.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Chelsea, IA a good place to live?
Chelsea offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 342 and a median age of 35.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Chelsea, IA?
5.8% of residents in Chelsea 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 Chelsea?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Chelsea, IA: median home value is $43,100 (82% below national), median rent is $681/month, and median household income is $32,188. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Chelsea?
The poverty rate in Chelsea, IA is 35.7%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Chelsea, IA?
Chelsea's population is 7.3% White, 14.6% Hispanic or Latino, 3.5% Black or African American, 3.2% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 24.9% of residents are foreign-born.