[2] It is part of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Statistical Area.

The name Central City refers to its location within proximity to railroads.

[6] As of the census of 2020,[8] there were 1,264 people, 548 households, and 341 families residing in the city.

Hispanic or Latino persons of any race comprised 2.1% of the population.

As of the census[9] of 2010, there were 1,257 people, 522 households, and 351 families living in the city.

27.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

As of the census[10] of 2000, there were 1,157 people, 490 households, and 320 families living in the city.

The racial makeup of the city was 98.96% White, 0.09% Native American, 0.09% Asian, and 0.86% from two or more races.

31.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.