Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Algona, IA
Considering a move to Algona, IA? With a friendly population of 5,322 and a cost of living index well below the national average, Algona offers affordable homes (median price around $120,500) and low average rents. Residents enjoy short commutes (just over 13 minutes), low crime rates, and a strong sense of community. Quality schools and a high school graduation rate of over 93% make Algona attractive for families, while its sunny days and welcoming small-town vibe round out its appeal. Explore Algona for a peaceful, affordable lifestyle in north-central Iowa.
Demographics - Algona, IA
Demographics - Algona, IA
Algona is a small community of 5,322 residents with a median age of 44.6, offering a predominantly White population and a balanced gender ratio. Its moderate population density and a low percentage of non-English speakers foster a close-knit and accessible environment. The city’s demographic profile supports a welcoming and neighborly atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a peaceful small-town lifestyle.
Population:
5,322
Density:
1,165 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.6
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.4%
Ethnic Composition
White:
94.0%
Black:
1.3%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
4.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Algona, IA?
Algona boasts a cost of living index of 79.2, making it notably more affordable than the national average. Homebuyers will find median house values around $120,500, while average rents remain accessible at $710 per month. Reasonable utility and insurance costs make Algona an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families.
Median House Value:
$120,500
Gross Rent:
$710
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$870
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,060
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$405
State Taxes:
Low:
4.4%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
79.2
Grocery:
94.1
Housing:
60.7
Utilities:
93.4
Transportation:
86.7
Health Care:
96.2
Miscellaneous:
90.1
Crime
Is Algona, IA a safe place to live?
Algona offers a sense of security with low violent crime rates—residents face a 1 in 675 chance of violent crime and a 1 in 77 chance of property crime. The city’s overall crime index remains well below national urban averages, contributing to a safe and family-friendly environment. This makes Algona a reassuring choice for those prioritizing peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
148
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,295
Crime Index:
1,443
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 675
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 77
Weather
What is the weather like in Algona, IA year-round?
Residents of Algona experience all four seasons, with cold winters dipping to 9°F and warm summers reaching up to 83°F. The city enjoys about 63% sunny days annually and receives moderate rainfall, supporting a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year. This climate allows for a balanced lifestyle, from cozy winters to pleasant summers.
Winter
Min:
9°F
Max:
28°F
Spring
Min:
37°F
Max:
60°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
31.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Algona’s households typically earn a median income of $57,100 and benefit from a low unemployment rate of 2.9%. With an average commute time of just 13 minutes and over 93% of adults holding at least a high school diploma, the community is both educated and convenient for daily living. The low poverty rate and strong sense of neighborhood make it an inviting place to settle.
Median Income:
$32,600
Household Income:
$57,100
Family Income:
$72,800
Per Capita Income:
$31,800
Income Male:
$43,600
Income Female:
$32,400
Poverty Rate:
10.2%
Non English Speakers:
3.4%
Rent:
$710
Unemployment Rate:
2.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
13.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.7%
Bachelors or More:
24.8%
Education
How are the schools in Algona, IA?
Algona offers quality educational opportunities with well-regarded public schools, such as Algona High School and Bryant Elementary, both featuring favorable student-teacher ratios. The city also supports private schooling options and is home to a campus of Iowa Lakes Community College, ensuring accessible education from elementary through post-secondary levels. High graduation rates and local college access make Algona a practical choice for families and students.
Public Schools
Name:
Algona High School
Street:
600 S Hale St
Phone:
515-295-7201
Students:
470
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Name:
Bryant Elementary School
Street:
209 E North St
Phone:
515-295-3586
Students:
370
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7
Private Schools
Name:
Seton Catholic School
Street:
308 2nd Ave SW
Phone:
515-295-3509
Students:
190
Colleges
Name:
Iowa Lakes Community College (Algona Campus)
City:
Algona
State:
IA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
200
Name:
Iowa Central Community College
City:
Fort Dodge
State:
IA
Distance:
40 miles
Students:
5,800
Healthcare
Healthcare in Algona is anchored by the Kossuth Regional Health Center, offering general and emergency services locally. The city provides good healthcare access, with 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 94% health insurance coverage. These factors ensure residents have reliable medical care close to home.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Kossuth Regional Health Center
Address:
1515 S Phillips St, Algona, IA 50511
Phone:
(515) 295-2451
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.1%
Health Care Index:
73.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Algona, IA?
Algona’s housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $120,500 and average two-bedroom rents at $710. High owner-occupancy rates and a modest home appreciation rate of 3.4% indicate stability, while low foreclosure and vacancy rates reflect a healthy market. These conditions make Algona appealing for both buyers and renters seeking long-term value.
Median Home Price:
$120,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$710
Owner Occupied Rate:
71.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.4%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Motor vehicle services for Algona residents are managed by the Iowa Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division, with the nearest major office located in Ames. Residents can access comprehensive DMV services, including licensing and registration, either online or at the Ames office. The DMV provides convenient support for all vehicle-related needs in Iowa.
State:
Iowa
Department:
Iowa Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
1300 S Grand Ave, Ames, IA 50010
Phone:
515-244-8725
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.