Manson, IA
Population 1,653 · Iowa
About Manson, IA
Manson is a small town located in Iowa with a population of 1,653 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $70,893 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 40.6 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Manson features a median home value of $118,800, which is 51% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Manson one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $656, 44% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 889 total housing units, 77% are owner-occupied (593 units) and 23% are renter-occupied (175 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Manson shows an unemployment rate of 5.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 6.9%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Manson have an average one-way commute time of 20.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
26.4% of Manson residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.0% Asian residents, with 0.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Manson, IA
Compared to national averages, Manson has a median household income of $70,893 (6% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $118,800, which is 51% below the national median. Monthly rent at $656 is 44% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Manson's income is 4% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 10% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Manson, IA?
Manson offers affordable housing with a median home value of $118,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $656/month, and a low poverty rate of 6.9%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 20.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($70,893) that falls below the national average. However, Manson’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Manson has a population of 1,653 with a median age of 40.6 years. Compare Manson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Manson
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lake City | 1,652 | $64,375 | $103,300 | Compare |
| Prairie City | 1,649 | $78,269 | $177,400 | Compare |
| Akron | 1,660 | $59,706 | $145,300 | Compare |
| Stuart | 1,642 | $62,500 | $152,300 | Compare |
| Nashua | 1,634 | $63,750 | $117,300 | Compare |
| Shell Rock | 1,634 | $70,556 | $159,100 | Compare |
| Guttenberg | 1,675 | $49,613 | $183,800 | Compare |
| Urbana | 1,628 | $112,672 | $224,100 | 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.
Compare Manson With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Manson
What is the population of Manson, IA?
The population of Manson, IA is 1,653 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Iowa.
What is the median household income in Manson?
The median household income in Manson, IA is $70,893 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Manson?
The median home value in Manson, IA is $118,800, which is 51% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Manson?
The median monthly rent in Manson, IA is $656, which is 44% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Manson?
The unemployment rate in Manson, IA is 5.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Manson, IA a good place to live?
Manson offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,653 and a median age of 40.6, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Manson, IA?
26.4% of residents in Manson 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 Manson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Manson, IA: median home value is $118,800 (51% below national), median rent is $656/month, and median household income is $70,893. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Manson?
The poverty rate in Manson, IA is 6.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Manson, IA?
Manson's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.0% Asian, and 0.5% two or more races. 0.7% of residents are foreign-born.