Forest City, IA
Population 4,280 · Iowa
About Forest City, IA
Forest City is a small community in Iowa with a population of 4,280 residents. The median household income is $62,917 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Forest City is 32 years.
Housing in Forest City has a median home value of $136,400 and median monthly rent of $719. Of the 1,780 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 1,131 owner-occupied and 433 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Forest City is 2.5% and the poverty rate is 9.4%. 26.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 13.5 minutes.
Cost of Living in Forest City, IA
Compared to national averages, Forest City has a median household income of $62,917 (16% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $136,400, which is 44% below the national median. Monthly rent at $719 is 38% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Forest City's income is 7% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 3% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Forest City, IA?
Forest City offers affordable housing with a median home value of $136,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $719/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.5%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 9.4%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 13.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($62,917) that falls below the national average. However, Forest City’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Forest City has a population of 4,280 with a median age of 32 years. Compare Forest City with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Forest City
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hampton | 4,311 | $48,922 | $91,900 | Compare |
| Chariton | 4,235 | $52,109 | $84,200 | Compare |
| Dyersville | 4,357 | $72,768 | $219,800 | Compare |
| Carlisle | 4,187 | $98,333 | $208,100 | Compare |
| Jefferson | 4,164 | $54,286 | $126,900 | Compare |
| Huxley | 4,440 | $122,716 | $296,100 | Compare |
| Rock Valley | 4,061 | $67,012 | $225,800 | Compare |
| Monticello | 4,055 | $67,788 | $160,500 | 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 Forest City
What is the population of Forest City, IA?
The population of Forest City, IA is 4,280 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Forest City?
The median household income in Forest City, IA is $62,917 per year.
What is the median home value in Forest City?
The median home value in Forest City, IA is $136,400.
What is the average rent in Forest City?
The median monthly rent in Forest City, IA is $719.
What is the unemployment rate in Forest City?
The unemployment rate in Forest City, IA is 2.5%.