Stanley, IA
Population 73 · Iowa
About Stanley, IA
Stanley is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 73 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $48,750 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 50.6 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 Stanley features a median home value of $60,000, which is 76% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Stanley one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 41 total housing units, 90% are owner-occupied (28 units) and 10% are renter-occupied (3 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Stanley shows an unemployment rate of 27.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 1.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Stanley have an average one-way commute time of 36.1 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
16.7% of Stanley 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 5.5% White, 4.1% Hispanic or Latino, 2.7% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Stanley, IA
Compared to national averages, Stanley has a median household income of $48,750 (35% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $60,000, which is 76% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Stanley's income is 28% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 55% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Stanley, IA?
Stanley offers affordable housing with a median home value of $60,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a low poverty rate of 1.4%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($48,750) that falls below the national average. However, Stanley’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Stanley has a population of 73 with a median age of 50.6 years. Compare Stanley with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Stanley
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
Demographics
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Economy & Education
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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 Stanley
What is the population of Stanley, IA?
The population of Stanley, IA is 73 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 Stanley?
The median household income in Stanley, IA is $48,750 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Stanley?
The median home value in Stanley, IA is $60,000, which is 76% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Stanley?
The median monthly rent in Stanley, IA is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Stanley?
The unemployment rate in Stanley, IA is 27.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Stanley, IA a good place to live?
Stanley offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 73 and a median age of 50.6, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Stanley, IA?
16.7% of residents in Stanley 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 Stanley?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Stanley, IA: median home value is $60,000 (76% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $48,750. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Stanley?
The poverty rate in Stanley, IA is 1.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Stanley, IA?
Stanley's population is 5.5% White, 4.1% Hispanic or Latino, 2.7% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.