[6] Lucas is the primary distribution center for and the former corporate headquarters of the Hy-Vee supermarket chain.

[8] Designed by local architect William L. Perkins and listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its role in the development of Chariton as a county seat, the Hotel Charitone is listed by the Iowa Historic Preservation Alliance as one of the most endangered sites in Iowa.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 3.82 square miles (9.89 km2), all land.

[10] The Lucas County Courthouse is the highest point of elevation in the whole town.

There were 2,072 housing units at an average density of 549.8 per square mile (212.3/km2).

There were 2,114 housing units at an average density of 553.4 per square mile (213.7/km2).

35.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

There were 2,155 housing units at an average density of 583.5 per square mile (225.3/km2).

34.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

[17][18] Chariton is located on U.S. Route 34, which runs east and west to each side of the state.