Tama, IA
Population 3,079 · Iowa
About Tama, IA
Tama is a small town located in Iowa with a population of 3,079 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $61,944 per year, which is 18% 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 Tama features a median home value of $101,200, which is 59% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Tama one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $744, 36% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,159 total housing units, 73% are owner-occupied (781 units) and 27% are renter-occupied (285 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Tama shows an unemployment rate of 6.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 23.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Tama have an average one-way commute time of 20.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.5% of Tama 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 25.8% White, 6.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, and 6.8% Asian residents, with 17.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Tama, IA
Compared to national averages, Tama has a median household income of $61,944 (18% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $101,200, which is 59% below the national median. Monthly rent at $744 is 36% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Tama's income is 9% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 23% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Tama, IA?
Tama offers affordable housing with a median home value of $101,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $744/month, and short commute times averaging just 20.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($61,944) that falls below the national average. However, Tama’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Tama has a population of 3,079 with a median age of 35 years. Compare Tama with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Tama
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solon | 3,092 | $111,597 | $305,300 | Compare |
| Garner | 3,062 | $68,964 | $162,100 | Compare |
| Tipton | 3,111 | $67,625 | $146,000 | Compare |
| West Burlington | 3,184 | $48,289 | $126,700 | Compare |
| Wilton | 2,943 | $71,898 | $162,000 | Compare |
| Fairfax | 2,865 | $120,552 | $278,800 | Compare |
| Onawa | 2,862 | $54,659 | $125,700 | Compare |
| Park View | 2,861 | $106,429 | $276,500 | 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 Tama With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Tama
What is the population of Tama, IA?
The population of Tama, IA is 3,079 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 Tama?
The median household income in Tama, IA is $61,944 per year, which is 18% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Tama?
The median home value in Tama, IA is $101,200, which is 59% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Tama?
The median monthly rent in Tama, IA is $744, which is 36% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Tama?
The unemployment rate in Tama, IA is 6.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Tama, IA a good place to live?
Tama offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 3,079 and a median age of 35, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Tama, IA?
15.5% of residents in Tama 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 Tama?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Tama, IA: median home value is $101,200 (59% below national), median rent is $744/month, and median household income is $61,944. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Tama?
The poverty rate in Tama, IA is 23.5%, 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 Tama, IA?
Tama's population is 25.8% White, 6.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, 6.8% Asian, and 2.4% two or more races. 17.1% of residents are foreign-born.