Holy Cross, IA
Population 264 · Iowa
About Holy Cross, IA
Holy Cross is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 264 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $47,188 per year, which is 37% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 48.7 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 Holy Cross features a median home value of $184,400, which is 25% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Holy Cross in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $334, 71% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 141 total housing units, 71% are owner-occupied (96 units) and 29% are renter-occupied (40 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Holy Cross shows an unemployment rate of 1.9%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 3.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Holy Cross have an average one-way commute time of 33.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
20.4% of Holy Cross 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 3.8% White, 3.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 3.0% Asian residents, with 4.9% of the population being foreign-born.
How Holy Cross Ranks in Iowa
Cost of Living in Holy Cross, IA
Compared to national averages, Holy Cross has a median household income of $47,188 (37% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $184,400, which is 25% below the national median. Monthly rent at $334 is 71% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Holy Cross's income is 31% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 39% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Holy Cross, IA?
Holy Cross offers affordable housing with a median home value of $184,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $334/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.9%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 3.0%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($47,188) that falls below the national average. However, Holy Cross’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Holy Cross has a population of 264 with a median age of 48.7 years. Compare Holy Cross with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Holy Cross
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
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.
Compare Holy Cross With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Holy Cross
What is the population of Holy Cross, IA?
The population of Holy Cross, IA is 264 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 Holy Cross?
The median household income in Holy Cross, IA is $47,188 per year, which is 37% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Holy Cross?
The median home value in Holy Cross, IA is $184,400, which is 25% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Holy Cross?
The median monthly rent in Holy Cross, IA is $334, which is 71% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Holy Cross?
The unemployment rate in Holy Cross, IA is 1.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Holy Cross, IA a good place to live?
Holy Cross offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 264 and a median age of 48.7, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Holy Cross, IA?
20.4% of residents in Holy Cross 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 Holy Cross?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Holy Cross, IA: median home value is $184,400 (25% below national), median rent is $334/month, and median household income is $47,188. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.9x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Holy Cross?
The poverty rate in Holy Cross, IA is 3.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Holy Cross, IA?
Holy Cross's population is 3.8% White, 3.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 3.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 4.9% of residents are foreign-born.