Elma, IA
Population 618 · Iowa
About Elma, IA
Elma is a small community in Iowa with a population of 618 residents. The median household income is $41,528 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Elma is 48 years.
Housing in Elma has a median home value of $71,400 and median monthly rent of $668. Of the 321 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 170 owner-occupied and 103 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Elma is 2.4% and the poverty rate is 23.0%. 11.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 25.2 minutes.
Cost of Living in Elma, IA
Compared to national averages, Elma has a median household income of $41,528 (45% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $71,400, which is 71% below the national median. Monthly rent at $668 is 43% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Elma's income is 39% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 46% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Elma, IA?
Elma offers affordable housing with a median home value of $71,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $668/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.4%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($41,528) that falls below the national average. However, Elma’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Elma has a population of 618 with a median age of 48 years. Compare Elma 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 Elma
What is the population of Elma, IA?
The population of Elma, IA is 618 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Elma?
The median household income in Elma, IA is $41,528 per year.
What is the median home value in Elma?
The median home value in Elma, IA is $71,400.
What is the average rent in Elma?
The median monthly rent in Elma, IA is $668.
What is the unemployment rate in Elma?
The unemployment rate in Elma, IA is 2.4%.