Shelby, IA
Population 797 · Iowa
About Shelby, IA
Shelby is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 797 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $60,333 per year, which is 20% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.4 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Shelby features a median home value of $156,300, which is 36% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Shelby in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $872, 25% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 422 total housing units, 65% are owner-occupied (252 units) and 35% are renter-occupied (138 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Shelby shows an unemployment rate of 4.4%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 9.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Shelby have an average one-way commute time of 30.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
12.4% of Shelby 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 6.8% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 4.5% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.4% of the population being foreign-born.
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.
Similar Cities Near Shelby
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
Demographics
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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 Shelby
What is the population of Shelby, IA?
The population of Shelby, IA is 797 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 Shelby?
The median household income in Shelby, IA is $60,333 per year, which is 20% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Shelby?
The median home value in Shelby, IA is $156,300, which is 36% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Shelby?
The median monthly rent in Shelby, IA is $872, which is 25% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Shelby?
The unemployment rate in Shelby, IA is 4.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Shelby, IA a good place to live?
Shelby offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 797 and a median age of 34.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Shelby, IA?
12.4% of residents in Shelby 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 Shelby?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Shelby, IA: median home value is $156,300 (36% below national), median rent is $872/month, and median household income is $60,333. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Shelby?
The poverty rate in Shelby, IA is 9.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Shelby, IA?
Shelby's population is 6.8% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 4.5% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.4% of residents are foreign-born.