Scranton, IA
Population 434 · Iowa
About Scranton, IA
Scranton is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 434 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $60,000 per year, which is 20% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 49.9 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 Scranton features a median home value of $58,600, which is 76% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Scranton one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $880, 24% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 235 total housing units, 60% are owner-occupied (128 units) and 40% are renter-occupied (84 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Scranton shows an unemployment rate of 0.9%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 14.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Scranton have an average one-way commute time of 23.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
7.8% of Scranton 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 3.5% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Scranton, IA
Compared to national averages, Scranton has a median household income of $60,000 (20% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $58,600, which is 76% below the national median. Monthly rent at $880 is 24% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Scranton's income is 12% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 56% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Scranton, IA?
Scranton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $58,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $880/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.9%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 23.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($60,000) that falls below the national average. However, Scranton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Scranton has a population of 434 with a median age of 49.9 years. Compare Scranton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Scranton
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| McCallsburg | 435 | $72,898 | $169,000 | Compare |
| Silver City | 435 | $68,214 | $139,000 | Compare |
| Breda | 436 | $59,469 | $133,600 | Compare |
| Galva | 432 | $70,714 | $80,700 | Compare |
| Marquette | 432 | $38,125 | $137,000 | Compare |
| Martelle | 432 | $95,000 | $130,000 | Compare |
| Wahpeton | 436 | $86,667 | $463,300 | Compare |
| Charlotte | 431 | $69,792 | $95,500 | 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.
Compare Scranton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Scranton
What is the population of Scranton, IA?
The population of Scranton, IA is 434 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 Scranton?
The median household income in Scranton, IA is $60,000 per year, which is 20% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Scranton?
The median home value in Scranton, IA is $58,600, which is 76% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Scranton?
The median monthly rent in Scranton, IA is $880, which is 24% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Scranton?
The unemployment rate in Scranton, IA is 0.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Scranton, IA a good place to live?
Scranton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 434 and a median age of 49.9, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Scranton, IA?
7.8% of residents in Scranton 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 Scranton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Scranton, IA: median home value is $58,600 (76% below national), median rent is $880/month, and median household income is $60,000. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Scranton?
The poverty rate in Scranton, IA is 14.7%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Scranton, IA?
Scranton's population is 3.5% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.