Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Carl, IA
Considering a quiet, affordable lifestyle? Carl, IA is a small rural community of 140 people, featuring a median home price of $92,000 and average rents around $600. Residents enjoy a low violent crime rate (120 per 100k), quick 21-minute commutes, and welcoming local schools. With 60% sunny days each year and a modest cost of living, Carl offers relaxed country living with basic amenities and a close-knit vibe—perfect for those seeking space and simplicity.
Demographics - Carl, IA
Carl, IA is a close-knit rural community with a population of just 140 residents, most of whom are over the age of 50. The town has a predominantly White demographic, with very few non-English speakers, making it a quiet and homogenous place to live. Its low population density and balanced gender ratio contribute to a peaceful, small-town atmosphere.
Population:
140
Density:
250 per sq mi
Median Age:
50.2
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
1.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
97.8%
Black:
0.0%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
2.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Carl, IA?
Carl offers an affordable lifestyle, with a median home value of $92,000 and average monthly rent around $600. The overall cost of living index sits well below the national average, making everyday expenses like groceries, utilities, and transportation very manageable for residents. Low state tax rates and modest utility bills further enhance the town's budget-friendly appeal.
Median House Value:
$92,000
Gross Rent:
$600
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$910
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$380
State Taxes:
Low:
0.33%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
85.6
Grocery:
93.0
Housing:
65.0
Utilities:
96.0
Transportation:
89.5
Health Care:
95.0
Miscellaneous:
90.0
Crime
Is Carl, IA a safe place to live?
Carl experiences a notably low crime rate, with only 120 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 830 chance of being affected by such incidents. Property crime is also relatively rare, providing a sense of security for those who value a safe environment. The community's small size and tight-knit nature contribute to its overall safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
120
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,050
Crime Index:
1,170
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 830
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in Carl, IA year-round?
Residents in Carl enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 85°F and cold winters dipping to 11°F. The area receives about 34 inches of rainfall annually and boasts around 60% sunny days, offering a pleasant balance of sunshine and precipitation. This climate supports outdoor activities throughout much of the year.
Winter
Min:
11°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
63°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
34 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
The median household income in Carl is $48,500, with a low unemployment rate of 3.2% and a poverty rate just over 10%. Most residents commute about 21 minutes to work, and public transportation is not common. The community is well-educated, with over 92% holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$28,000
Household Income:
$48,500
Family Income:
$60,200
Per Capita Income:
$26,700
Income Male:
$34,000
Income Female:
$25,000
Poverty Rate:
10.1%
Non English Speakers:
1.2%
Rent:
$600
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
21.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.3%
Bachelors or More:
18.4%
Education
How are the schools in Carl, IA?
Public education in Carl is provided by the Nodaway Valley schools, known for small class sizes and supportive learning environments. High school and elementary campuses serve the community, while higher education opportunities are available at Southwestern Community College, just 20 miles away. Families benefit from accessible and well-rounded educational options.
Public Schools
Name:
Nodaway Valley Elementary School
Street:
324 NW 2nd St
Phone:
641-743-6136
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7
Name:
Nodaway Valley High School
Street:
410 NW 2nd St
Phone:
641-743-6141
Students:
240
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.2
Colleges
Name:
Southwestern Community College
City:
Creston
State:
IA
Distance:
20 miles
Students:
1,600
Healthcare
Carl residents have access to nearby medical facilities such as Greater Regional Health and Adair County Health System, both offering emergency services. The area provides about 1.3 physicians per 1,000 people, and over 91% of residents have health insurance. Healthcare services are readily available for a small-town setting.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Greater Regional Health
Address:
1700 W Townline St, Creston, IA 50801
Phone:
(641) 782-7091
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Adair County Health System
Address:
609 SE Kent St, Greenfield, IA 50849
Phone:
(641) 743-2123
Type:
Critical Access
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.5%
Health Care Index:
67.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Carl, IA?
The local housing market is very affordable, with a median home price of $92,000 and most homes being owner-occupied. Average rent for a two-bedroom unit is about $600, and the area sees low foreclosure and vacancy rates. Home values have appreciated modestly over the past year, reflecting a stable market.
Median Home Price:
$92,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$600
Owner Occupied Rate:
84.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Carl residents are served by the Iowa Department of Transportation, located in nearby Ankeny. Services such as licensing, vehicle registration, and information are accessible both in person and online through the state DMV website. The department provides essential resources for drivers and vehicle owners in the area.
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.