Shellsburg, IA
Population 752 · Iowa
About Shellsburg, IA
Shellsburg is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 752 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $69,750 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 43.7 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 Shellsburg features a median home value of $184,100, which is 25% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Shellsburg in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $928, 20% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 381 total housing units, 86% are owner-occupied (236 units) and 14% are renter-occupied (37 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Shellsburg shows an unemployment rate of 2.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 2.9%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Shellsburg have an average one-way commute time of 26.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.1% of Shellsburg 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 3.1% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Shellsburg, IA
Compared to national averages, Shellsburg has a median household income of $69,750 (7% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $184,100, which is 25% below the national median. Monthly rent at $928 is 20% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Shellsburg's income is 3% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 39% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Shellsburg, IA?
Shellsburg offers affordable housing with a median home value of $184,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $928/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.0%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 2.9%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($69,750) that falls below the national average. However, Shellsburg’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Shellsburg has a population of 752 with a median age of 43.7 years. Compare Shellsburg with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Shellsburg
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 Shellsburg With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Shellsburg
What is the population of Shellsburg, IA?
The population of Shellsburg, IA is 752 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 Shellsburg?
The median household income in Shellsburg, IA is $69,750 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Shellsburg?
The median home value in Shellsburg, IA is $184,100, which is 25% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Shellsburg?
The median monthly rent in Shellsburg, IA is $928, which is 20% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Shellsburg?
The unemployment rate in Shellsburg, IA is 2.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Shellsburg, IA a good place to live?
Shellsburg offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 752 and a median age of 43.7, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Shellsburg, IA?
14.1% of residents in Shellsburg 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 Shellsburg?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Shellsburg, IA: median home value is $184,100 (25% below national), median rent is $928/month, and median household income is $69,750. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Shellsburg?
The poverty rate in Shellsburg, IA is 2.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Shellsburg, IA?
Shellsburg's population is 3.1% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.5% of residents are foreign-born.