What Should I Know Before Moving to Brainard?

Check the cost of living, housing, traffic, and public transit in Brainard. Each neighborhood has its own vibe, so pick one that fits your lifestyle. Be prepared for Brainard climate and weather.

How Much Do Movers Charge in Brainard?

Moving within Brainard usually costs between $300 and $1,500. Moving long distances can cost anywhere from $2,000 to more than $5,000. The price may go up if you need extra services like packing or storage. Fill out Movers.com quote form to compare the quotes easily.

What’s the Best Time of the Year to Move to Brainard?

While moves happen year-round, spring and fall are often more comfortable in Brainard. Booking outside of peak summer or winter seasons can save money and make scheduling easier.

Do Moving Companies in Brainard Offer Packing and Unpacking Services?

Yes! Majority of moving companies in Brainard offer full service moving, which means they will help you pack, unpack, and arrange your belongings.

When You Move from Brainard, How Far in Advance Should I Schedule My Move?

You should plan your move from Brainard at least 4 to 8 weeks in advance, especially if you're moving during the busy season (summer). You can get better availability, prices, and flexibility with your moving date if you book early. If you book at the last minute, you may have fewer choices or pay more.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Brainard, IA

Considering a move to Brainard, IA? This small, close-knit community of about 195 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $106,000 and typical rents at $720. Crime rates are well below national averages, and commutes average just over 21 minutes. Residents enjoy a quiet rural lifestyle, good access to healthcare, and solid educational opportunities nearby. If you’re seeking a safe, friendly small-town feel with cost savings and classic Iowa seasons, Brainard is a great place to call home.

Demographics - Brainard, IA

Brainard, IA is a small, predominantly White community of 195 residents, with a median age of 46.2 and a balanced gender ratio. The town features a high population density for its size and a low percentage of non-English speakers, contributing to its close-knit, homogenous atmosphere.

Population:

195

Density:

360 per sq mi

Median Age:

46.2

Gender Ratio:

97 males per 100 females

Non-English Speakers Percentage:

2.1%

Ethnic Composition

White:

98.5%

Black:

0.0%

Asian:

0.0%

Others:

1.5%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Brainard, IA?

Living in Brainard is affordable, with a median home value of $106,000 and an overall cost of living index significantly below the national average. Residents benefit from low housing costs, reasonable utility expenses, and modest state tax rates, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious households.

Median House Value:

$106,000

Gross Rent:

$720

Monthly Electricity Charges:

$110

Auto Insurance:

$970

House Owner Cost With Mortgage:

$1,020

House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:

$410

State Taxes:

Low:

0.33%

High:

8.53%

Cost Of Living Index:

83.4

Grocery:

93.1

Housing:

69.2

Utilities:

95.5

Transportation:

90.7

Health Care:

97.2

Miscellaneous:

89.0

Crime

Is Brainard, IA a safe place to live?

Brainard boasts a low violent crime rate of 84 incidents per 100,000 people, and property crime remains well below national norms. With a 1 in 1,190 chance of violent crime, residents can enjoy a safe and secure environment.

Violent Crimes Per 100k:

Property Crimes Per 100k:

1,080

Crime Index:

1,164

Chance Of Violent Crime:

1 in 1,190

Chance Of Property Crime:

1 in 93

Weather

What is the weather like in Brainard, IA year-round?

Residents in Brainard experience the full range of Iowa seasons, with cold winters averaging lows near 9°F and warm summers peaking at 84°F. The area receives about 35.8 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 54% of the year, ideal for those who appreciate seasonal variety.

Winter

Min:

9°F

Max:

28°F

Spring

Min:

38°F

Max:

65°F

Summer

Min:

61°F

Max:

84°F

Fall

Min:

40°F

Max:

66°F

Average Rainfall Inches:

35.8 inches

Sunny Days Percentage:

54%

Neighbors

Typical households in Brainard enjoy a median income of $54,800 and a low poverty rate of 8.2%. The community values education, with over 92% of adults holding a high school diploma or higher, and average commute times are a manageable 21 minutes.

Median Income:

$33,000

Household Income:

$54,800

Family Income:

$62,200

Per Capita Income:

$28,400

Income Male:

$38,500

Income Female:

$27,800

Poverty Rate:

8.2%

Non English Speakers:

2.1%

Rent:

$720

Unemployment Rate:

3.2%

Public Transport Usage:

0.2%

Commute Time:

21.3 minutes

Education

High School or Higher:

92.1%

Bachelors or More:

20.7%

Education

How are the schools in Brainard, IA?

Brainard offers access to quality public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios, supporting a strong educational foundation for local children. Nearby higher education institutions, such as Upper Iowa University and Luther College, provide ample opportunities for advanced learning within a short drive.

Public Schools

Name:

North Fayette Valley High School

Street:

600 N Pine St

Phone:

563-422-3851

Students:

330

Student Teacher Ratio:

13.1

Name:

Valley Elementary School

Street:

23493 Canoe Rd

Phone:

563-425-3301

Students:

190

Student Teacher Ratio:

13.5

Colleges

Name:

Upper Iowa University

City:

Fayette

State:

Distance:

13 miles

Students:

5,800

Name:

Luther College

City:

Decorah

State:

Distance:

19 miles

Students:

1,800

Healthcare

Brainard residents have convenient access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals located nearby and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 92.8%. The area maintains a solid healthcare index and a favorable ratio of physicians per capita, ensuring essential medical services are within reach.

Major Hospitals

Name:

Winneshiek Medical Center

Address:

901 Montgomery St, Decorah, IA 52101

Phone:

(563) 382-2911

Type:

General & Surgical

Emergency Services:

Yes

Name:

Gundersen Palmer Lutheran Hospital

Address:

112 Jefferson St, West Union, IA 52175

Phone:

(563) 422-3811

Type:

General & Surgical

Emergency Services:

Yes

Physicians Per 1000:

1.6

Health Insurance Coverage:

92.8%

Health Care Index:

69.8

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Brainard, IA?

The housing market in Brainard is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $106,000 and an 81.5% owner-occupancy rate. Rental options are available at an average of $720 for a two-bedroom, and the area enjoys low foreclosure and vacancy rates.

Median Home Price:

$106,000

Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:

$720

Owner Occupied Rate:

81.5%

Rental Vacancy Rate:

7.2%

Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):

5.1%

New Construction Rate:

0.4%

Foreclosure Rate:

0.2%

DMV Information

Vehicle and licensing needs in Brainard are served by the Iowa Department of Transportation, conveniently located in Ankeny. Residents can access essential DMV services and information through the state’s official website and helpline.

State:

Iowa

Department:

Iowa Department of Transportation

Address:

6310 SE Convenience Blvd, Ankeny, IA 50021

Phone:

515-244-8725

Website:

https://iowadot.gov/mvd

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.