Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Buffalo Center, IA
Thinking of moving to Buffalo Center, IA? With a close-knit population of 866, this friendly town offers affordable living—median home prices are around $91,000 and average rent is just $650. Residents enjoy low crime rates, short 14-minute commutes, and excellent access to nature amid 59% sunny days each year. With solid schools, a strong owner-occupied housing rate, and welcoming community spirit, Buffalo Center is a great choice for those seeking small-town Iowa charm and value.
Demographics - Buffalo Center, IA
Demographics - Buffalo Center, IA
Buffalo Center is a small, close-knit town with a population of 866 and a median age of 45, reflecting a mature community. The area is predominantly White, with nearly 95% of residents identifying as such, and a balanced gender ratio. A small but notable percentage of non-English speakers adds some diversity to this welcoming Iowa town.
Population:
866
Density:
950 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
94.5%
Black:
0.8%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
4.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Buffalo Center, IA?
Buffalo Center offers an affordable cost of living, with median home values around $91,000 and average monthly rent at $650. Utilities and everyday expenses remain below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. State taxes are moderate, and the overall cost of living index is notably lower than the U.S. average.
Median House Value:
$91,000
Gross Rent:
$650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,020
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$940
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$400
State Taxes:
Low:
0.33%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.7
Grocery:
93.2
Housing:
56.5
Utilities:
98.0
Transportation:
89.0
Health Care:
95.5
Miscellaneous:
86.0
Crime
Is Buffalo Center, IA a safe place to live?
Residents enjoy a safe environment in Buffalo Center, with very low violent crime rates—just 80 incidents per 100,000 population—and a low chance of property crime. The town's crime index is well below the national average, offering peace of mind for families and individuals alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
80
Property Crimes Per 100k:
670
Crime Index:
750
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,250
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 149
Weather
What is the weather like in Buffalo Center, IA year-round?
Buffalo Center experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters averaging as low as 7°F and warm, pleasant summers reaching up to 82°F. The area receives about 31.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 59% of days, making it ideal for those who appreciate changing seasons and outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
7°F
Max:
27°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
61°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
31.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
59%
Neighbors
The community in Buffalo Center features a median household income of $54,000 and a low poverty rate under 10%. Most residents are well-educated, with over 91% having completed high school, and average commute times are a quick 14 minutes. The town is known for its friendly neighbors and a strong sense of local connection.
Median Income:
$37,900
Household Income:
$54,000
Family Income:
$63,000
Per Capita Income:
$29,700
Income Male:
$41,500
Income Female:
$33,800
Poverty Rate:
9.8%
Non English Speakers:
4.5%
Rent:
$650
Unemployment Rate:
3.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
14.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.5%
Bachelors or More:
18.2%
Education
How are the schools in Buffalo Center, IA?
Buffalo Center provides quality public education with small class sizes, as seen in both its elementary and high schools, each with around 180 students and favorable student-to-teacher ratios. While there are no private schools in town, higher education is accessible nearby at Waldorf University in Forest City, only 17 miles away. The community places a strong emphasis on educational attainment and lifelong learning.
Public Schools
Name:
North Iowa Elementary School
Street:
111 3rd Ave NW
Phone:
641-562-2525
Students:
180
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5
Name:
North Iowa High School
Street:
111 3rd Ave NW
Phone:
641-562-2525
Students:
180
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.8
Colleges
Name:
Waldorf University
City:
Forest City
State:
IA
Distance:
17 miles
Students:
2,500
Healthcare
Buffalo Center residents have access to quality healthcare, with two major hospitals nearby and a healthcare coverage rate of 92.7%. There are 1.8 physicians per 1,000 people, ensuring reasonable access to medical services. The community benefits from a strong healthcare network for both routine and emergency needs.
Major Hospitals
Name:
MercyOne Forest City Medical Center
Address:
635 W US Hwy 9, Forest City, IA 50436
Phone:
(641) 585-2904
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
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:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.7%
Health Care Index:
71.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Buffalo Center, IA?
The housing market in Buffalo Center is highly accessible, with median home prices at $91,000 and an owner-occupied rate of 75%. Home values have seen moderate appreciation, and rental options remain affordable, making it easy for newcomers to find a place to call home. Vacancy and foreclosure rates are low, reflecting a stable local market.
Median Home Price:
$91,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$650
Owner Occupied Rate:
75.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Buffalo Center residents are served by the Iowa Department of Transportation, with the main DMV office located in Ankeny. Services such as licensing, vehicle registration, and information are available both in-person and online through the state's official website. The process is straightforward and well-supported for new and current residents.
State:
Iowa
Department:
Iowa Department of Transportation
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.