[2] Tama is situated two miles south of Toledo, the county seat.

Tama got its start in the year 1862, following construction of the Cedar Rapids and Missouri River Railroad through the territory.

[3] Tama is located a few miles from the Meskwaki Settlement, Iowa's only significant Native American community.

Tama was located on the historic Lincoln Highway and is home to an original Lincoln Highway bridge, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

There were 1,243 housing units at an average density of 418.3 per square mile (161.5/km2).

29.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

28.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

Tama-Toledo area residents have access to healthcare services at MercyCare Tama or Unity Point Toledo Clinic.

It is within the South Tama County Community School District.

[9] Tama is the headquarters of the Sac and Fox Tribe of the Mississippi in Iowa.