[5] The first post office in Smith Center was established in January 1873.

[7][8] According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.24 square miles (3.21 km2), all land.

There were 928 housing units at an average density of 748.4 per square mile (289.0/km2).

36.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 21.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

34.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 21.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

The Smith Center government consists of a mayor and five council members.

[14] The community is served by Smith Center USD 237 public school district.