State Center, IA
Population 1,548 · Iowa
About State Center, IA
State Center is a small town located in Iowa with a population of 1,548 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $72,303 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35 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 State Center features a median home value of $156,300, which is 36% below the national median of $244,900. This positions State Center in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $741, 36% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 687 total housing units, 74% are owner-occupied (469 units) and 26% are renter-occupied (166 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in State Center shows an unemployment rate of 4.6%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 10.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in State Center have an average one-way commute time of 28.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
26.4% of State Center residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 12.1% White, 0.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 2.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in State Center, IA
Compared to national averages, State Center has a median household income of $72,303 (4% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $156,300, which is 36% below the national median. Monthly rent at $741 is 36% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, State Center's income is 6% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 18% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in State Center, IA?
State Center 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 $741/month, and a low poverty rate of 10.0%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($72,303) that falls below the national average. However, State Center’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
State Center has a population of 1,548 with a median age of 35 years. Compare State Center with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near State Center
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holstein | 1,552 | $61,625 | $113,200 | Compare |
| Ackley | 1,554 | $61,667 | $99,200 | Compare |
| Wellman | 1,539 | $56,696 | $149,000 | Compare |
| Pocahontas | 1,536 | $56,298 | $96,600 | Compare |
| Brooklyn | 1,565 | $71,500 | $123,600 | Compare |
| Corydon | 1,566 | $48,988 | $88,800 | Compare |
| Corning | 1,573 | $60,446 | $84,700 | Compare |
| Dysart | 1,575 | $62,308 | $156,500 | 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 State Center With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about State Center
What is the population of State Center, IA?
The population of State Center, IA is 1,548 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Iowa.
What is the median household income in State Center?
The median household income in State Center, IA is $72,303 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in State Center?
The median home value in State Center, 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 State Center?
The median monthly rent in State Center, IA is $741, which is 36% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in State Center?
The unemployment rate in State Center, IA is 4.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is State Center, IA a good place to live?
State Center offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,548 and a median age of 35, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is State Center, IA?
26.4% of residents in State Center 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 State Center?
Key cost-of-living indicators for State Center, IA: median home value is $156,300 (36% below national), median rent is $741/month, and median household income is $72,303. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in State Center?
The poverty rate in State Center, IA is 10.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is State Center, IA?
State Center's population is 12.1% White, 0.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 2.0% of residents are foreign-born.