Chelsea, IA
Population 342 · Iowa
About Chelsea, IA
Chelsea is a small community in Iowa with a population of 342 residents. The median household income is $32,188 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Chelsea is 35.5 years.
Housing in Chelsea has a median home value of $43,100 and median monthly rent of $681. Of the 155 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 120 owner-occupied and 7 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Chelsea is 3.4% and the poverty rate is 35.7%. 5.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 42.3 minutes.
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.
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Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Chelsea
What is the population of Chelsea, IA?
The population of Chelsea, IA is 342 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Chelsea?
The median household income in Chelsea, IA is $32,188 per year.
What is the median home value in Chelsea?
The median home value in Chelsea, IA is $43,100.
What is the average rent in Chelsea?
The median monthly rent in Chelsea, IA is $681.
What is the unemployment rate in Chelsea?
The unemployment rate in Chelsea, IA is 3.4%.