Story City, IA
Population 3,363 · Iowa
About Story City, IA
Story City is a small town located in Iowa with a population of 3,363 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $73,558 per year, which is 2% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 44.6 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 Story City features a median home value of $205,800, which is 16% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Story City in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $956, 18% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,610 total housing units, 75% are owner-occupied (1,119 units) and 25% are renter-occupied (382 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Story City shows an unemployment rate of 3.9%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 13.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Story City have an average one-way commute time of 22.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
35.7% of Story City 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 3.2% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.2% Asian residents, with 3.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Story City, IA
Compared to national averages, Story City has a median household income of $73,558 (2% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $205,800, which is 16% below the national median. Monthly rent at $956 is 18% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Story City's income is 8% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 56% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Story City, IA?
Story City offers affordable housing with a median home value of $205,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $956/month, and a well-educated community where 35.7% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 22.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($73,558) that falls below the national average. However, Story City’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Story City has a population of 3,363 with a median age of 44.6 years. Compare Story City with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Story City
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robins | 3,349 | $122,500 | $370,500 | Compare |
| Williamsburg | 3,347 | $65,607 | $194,000 | Compare |
| Milford | 3,315 | $60,571 | $211,000 | Compare |
| New Hampton | 3,462 | $61,491 | $159,200 | Compare |
| West Burlington | 3,184 | $48,289 | $126,700 | Compare |
| Saylorville | 3,559 | $80,250 | $287,700 | Compare |
| Osage | 3,578 | $62,309 | $141,800 | Compare |
| Eagle Grove | 3,588 | $58,458 | $95,100 | 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 Story City With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Story City
What is the population of Story City, IA?
The population of Story City, IA is 3,363 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 Story City?
The median household income in Story City, IA is $73,558 per year, which is 2% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Story City?
The median home value in Story City, IA is $205,800, which is 16% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Story City?
The median monthly rent in Story City, IA is $956, which is 18% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Story City?
The unemployment rate in Story City, IA is 3.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Story City, IA a good place to live?
Story City offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 3,363 and a median age of 44.6, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Story City, IA?
35.7% of residents in Story City aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Story City?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Story City, IA: median home value is $205,800 (16% below national), median rent is $956/month, and median household income is $73,558. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Story City?
The poverty rate in Story City, IA is 13.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Story City, IA?
Story City's population is 3.2% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.2% Asian, and 0.8% two or more races. 3.1% of residents are foreign-born.