Columbus City, IA
Population 306 · Iowa
About Columbus City, IA
Columbus City is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 306 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $82,500 per year, which is 10% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 51.5 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Columbus City features a median home value of $104,400, which is 57% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Columbus City one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 134 total housing units, 97% are owner-occupied (130 units) and 3% are renter-occupied (4 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Columbus City shows an unemployment rate of 4.6%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 4.9%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Columbus City have an average one-way commute time of 28.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
3.4% of Columbus 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 51.3% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.0% Asian residents, with 22.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Columbus City, IA
Compared to national averages, Columbus City has a median household income of $82,500 (10% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $104,400, which is 57% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Columbus City's income is 21% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 21% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Columbus City, IA?
Columbus City offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $82,500, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $104,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 4.9%, better than the national average.
Columbus City has a population of 306 with a median age of 51.5 years. Compare Columbus City with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
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Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
Demographics
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Economy & Education
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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 Columbus City
What is the population of Columbus City, IA?
The population of Columbus City, IA is 306 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 Columbus City?
The median household income in Columbus City, IA is $82,500 per year, which is 10% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Columbus City?
The median home value in Columbus City, IA is $104,400, which is 57% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Columbus City?
The median monthly rent in Columbus City, IA is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Columbus City?
The unemployment rate in Columbus City, IA is 4.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Columbus City, IA a good place to live?
Columbus City offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 306 and a median age of 51.5, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Columbus City, IA?
3.4% of residents in Columbus 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 Columbus City?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Columbus City, IA: median home value is $104,400 (57% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $82,500. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Columbus City?
The poverty rate in Columbus City, IA is 4.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Columbus City, IA?
Columbus City's population is 51.3% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 22.2% of residents are foreign-born.