Shelby, IA
Population 797 · Iowa
About Shelby, IA
Shelby is a small community in Iowa with a population of 797 residents. The median household income is $60,333 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Shelby is 34.4 years.
Housing in Shelby has a median home value of $156,300 and median monthly rent of $872. Of the 422 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 252 owner-occupied and 138 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Shelby is 4.4% and the poverty rate is 9.8%. 12.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 30.6 minutes.
Cost of Living in Shelby, IA
Compared to national averages, Shelby has a median household income of $60,333 (20% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $156,300, which is 36% below the national median. Monthly rent at $872 is 25% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Shelby's income is 11% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 18% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Shelby, IA?
Shelby offers affordable housing with a median home value of $156,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $872/month, and a low poverty rate of 9.8%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($60,333) that falls below the national average. However, Shelby’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Shelby has a population of 797 with a median age of 34.4 years. Compare Shelby with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
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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 Shelby
What is the population of Shelby, IA?
The population of Shelby, IA is 797 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Shelby?
The median household income in Shelby, IA is $60,333 per year.
What is the median home value in Shelby?
The median home value in Shelby, IA is $156,300.
What is the average rent in Shelby?
The median monthly rent in Shelby, IA is $872.
What is the unemployment rate in Shelby?
The unemployment rate in Shelby, IA is 4.4%.