Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Bolan, IA
Thinking of moving to Bolan, IA? With a friendly population of just 30, Bolan offers small-town charm, affordable living, and owner-friendly housing costs—median home prices are around $83,000 and rents average $650. Crime rates are low, and residents enjoy an average commute of 24 minutes, with peaceful rural surroundings. While educational and healthcare resources are nearby in neighboring towns, Bolan’s cost of living and tranquil lifestyle make it a unique spot for those seeking quiet Iowa living.
Demographics - Bolan, IA
Bolan, Iowa is a close-knit rural community with a population of just 30 people, a median age of 47.5, and a balanced gender ratio. The town is predominantly White, with a small percentage of other ethnicities and non-English speakers, offering a peaceful and homogenous environment. Residents enjoy a relaxed pace of life in a sparsely populated area.
Population:
30
Density:
30 per sq mi
Median Age:
47.5
Gender Ratio:
100 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
96.0%
Black:
0.0%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
4.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Bolan, IA?
Bolan offers an exceptionally affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $83,000 and average rent at $650. The cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious residents. Utilities, transportation, and groceries are also reasonably priced, contributing to a low overall monthly expense.
Median House Value:
$83,000
Gross Rent:
$650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$900
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$325
State Taxes:
Low:
0.33%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.3
Grocery:
94.4
Housing:
60.2
Utilities:
90.8
Transportation:
87.4
Health Care:
98.0
Miscellaneous:
90.1
Crime
Is Bolan, IA a safe place to live?
Bolan experiences very low crime rates, with only 82 violent crimes and 1,280 property crimes per 100,000 residents, making it a safe choice for families and retirees. The chance of encountering violent crime is extremely rare, offering peace of mind to those seeking a secure small-town environment. Residents benefit from a strong sense of safety day-to-day.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
82
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,280
Crime Index:
1,362
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,220
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 78
Weather
What is the weather like in Bolan, IA year-round?
Residents of Bolan enjoy a full four-season climate, with cold winters averaging lows around 7°F and warm summers reaching up to 83°F. The area receives about 31 inches of annual rainfall and sees sunshine 58% of the year, making for pleasant and varied weather year-round. Seasonal changes provide distinct experiences for outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
7°F
Max:
28°F
Spring
Min:
37°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
31.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
58%
Neighbors
The community features a median household income of $54,200 and a low unemployment rate of 3.1%, reflecting steady local employment. Most residents commute about 24 minutes, often by car, and nearly all have completed high school, with a fifth holding a bachelor's degree or higher. The area maintains a modest poverty rate, fostering a stable and supportive neighborhood.
Median Income:
$32,000
Household Income:
$54,200
Family Income:
$63,000
Per Capita Income:
$29,000
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$31,000
Poverty Rate:
12.5%
Non English Speakers:
2.0%
Rent:
$650
Unemployment Rate:
3.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
24.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.3%
Bachelors or More:
21.8%
Education
How are the schools in Bolan, IA?
Educational needs in Bolan are met by local public schools such as Central Springs Elementary, which offers small class sizes and personalized attention. For higher education, North Iowa Area Community College is located 17 miles away in Mason City, providing convenient access to degree and vocational programs. Families benefit from quality schools and nearby college opportunities.
Public Schools
Name:
Central Springs Elementary School
Street:
509 N Iowa Ave, Nora Springs, IA 50458
Phone:
641-749-5301
Students:
210
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5
Colleges
Name:
North Iowa Area Community College
City:
Mason City
State:
IA
Distance:
17 miles
Students:
2,800
Healthcare
Access to healthcare in Bolan is strong, with 92% of residents insured and nearby facilities like MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center providing comprehensive services. The region offers about 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and a solid healthcare index, ensuring quality care is within reach. Emergency and general medical needs are met in neighboring Mason City.
Major Hospitals
Name:
MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center
Address:
1000 4th St SW, Mason City, IA 50401
Phone:
(641) 428-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.0%
Health Care Index:
68.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Bolan, IA?
Bolan’s housing market is highly affordable, with a median home price of $83,000 and owner occupancy at over 80%. Renters can expect average rates around $650 for a two-bedroom unit, while home values have seen modest appreciation. The market is stable, with low foreclosure and vacancy rates, making it ideal for both buyers and long-term residents.
Median Home Price:
$83,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$650
Owner Occupied Rate:
81.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Residents of Bolan are served by the Iowa Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicle Division, located in Ankeny. Services like licensing, registration, and vehicle titling are accessible both in person and online. The DMV provides essential support for drivers throughout the state.
State:
Iowa
Department:
Iowa Department of Transportation - Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
6310 SE Convenience Blvd, Ankeny, IA 50021
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.