Ely, IA
Population 2,033 · Iowa
About Ely, IA
Ely is a small community in Iowa with a population of 2,033 residents. The median household income is $102,262 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Ely is 37.6 years.
Housing in Ely has a median home value of $275,800 and median monthly rent of $1,014. Of the 801 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 647 owner-occupied and 143 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Ely is 2.5% and the poverty rate is 4.1%. 35.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 21.4 minutes.
Cost of Living in Ely, IA
Compared to national averages, Ely has a median household income of $102,262 (36% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $275,800, which is 13% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,014 is 13% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Ely's income is 51% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 109% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Ely, IA?
Ely offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $102,262, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,014/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.5%. Additionally, the city features a well-educated community where 35.6% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 4.1%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 21.4 minutes.
Ely has a population of 2,033 with a median age of 37.6 years. Compare Ely with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Ely
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Mills | 2,054 | $70,333 | $127,100 | Compare |
| Dallas Center | 2,058 | $88,750 | $231,100 | Compare |
| Audubon | 2,069 | $41,389 | $92,800 | Compare |
| Monroe | 2,074 | $81,488 | $173,500 | Compare |
| Epworth | 1,991 | $73,571 | $229,200 | Compare |
| Toledo | 2,079 | $56,719 | $124,000 | Compare |
| Colfax | 2,089 | $82,878 | $160,500 | Compare |
| Lamoni | 2,121 | $52,300 | $107,900 | 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 Ely
What is the population of Ely, IA?
The population of Ely, IA is 2,033 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Ely?
The median household income in Ely, IA is $102,262 per year.
What is the median home value in Ely?
The median home value in Ely, IA is $275,800.
What is the average rent in Ely?
The median monthly rent in Ely, IA is $1,014.
What is the unemployment rate in Ely?
The unemployment rate in Ely, IA is 2.5%.