Iowa / Fayette County

Moving to Brainard, IA

Thinking of making a move to Brainard, IA? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Brainard, IA

Considering a move to Brainard, IA? This welcoming community of 195 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $106,000 and average rents near $720. Commute times average 21 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (54% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Brainard's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Brainard, IA

Brainard has a population of 195 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 46 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 99% White, 0% Black, and 0% Asian residents, and over 2% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban 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?

The cost of living in Brainard is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 83.4. Median home values are around $106,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $720. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

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 is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 84 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 93. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Iowa.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
84
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?

Brainard experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 84°F and cold winters dipping to 9°F. The area receives about 36 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 54% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
9°F
Max
28°F

Summer

Min
61°F
Max
84°F

Spring

Min
38°F
Max
65°F

Fall

Min
40°F
Max
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches
35.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
54%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $54,800 and a low poverty rate of 8.2%. Over 92% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 21% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 21 minutes, and almost 0% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

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 quality education options, with public schools like North Fayette Valley High School and Valley Elementary School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Upper Iowa University and Luther College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

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
IA
Distance
13 miles
Students
5,800
Name
Luther College
City
Decorah
State
IA
Distance
19 miles
Students
1,800

Healthcare

Brainard residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Winneshiek Medical Center and Gundersen Palmer Lutheran Hospital nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 1.6 per 1,000 people and 92.8% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

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

Healthcare Access

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 local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $106,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 82%. The market has seen a 5.1% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 7.2%. Brainard offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

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

Residents of Brainard handle vehicle services through the Iowa Department of Transportation, conveniently located in Ankeny. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Iowa
Department
Iowa Department of Transportation
Address
6310 SE Convenience Blvd, Ankeny, IA 50021
Phone
515-244-8725

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.

FAQs About Moving to Brainard, IA

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Brainard, review the core fields on this page: population 195, median home value $106,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $720, commute time 21.3 minutes, and sunny days percentage 54%.

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