Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Central Heights, IA
Considering a move to Central Heights, IA? With a population of about 2,300, this small town offers affordable living—median home prices are just $162,000 and rents average $780. Residents enjoy short average commutes of 18 minutes, low crime rates (violent crime at 142 per 100K), and a strong sense of community. Central Heights features quality schools, a local hospital, and a friendly Midwestern climate with 62% sunny days per year. It’s a great choice for those seeking safe, small-town living with reasonable costs and easy access to amenities.
Demographics - Central Heights, IA
Demographics - Central Heights, IA
Central Heights is a close-knit community of around 2,300 residents, with a median age of 41 and a balanced gender ratio. The population is predominantly White, and just over 4% speak a language other than English at home, reflecting a modest level of diversity. Residents enjoy the welcoming atmosphere typical of a small Midwestern town.
Population:
2,300
Density:
1,150 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
91.0%
Black:
1.6%
Asian:
0.9%
Others:
6.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Central Heights, IA?
Living in Central Heights is budget-friendly, with a cost of living index of 86.1, noticeably below the national average. Homebuyers will find median house values around $162,000 and rents averaging $780, making it an affordable option for families and individuals alike. Utilities and other everyday expenses also remain comparably low.
Median House Value:
$162,000
Gross Rent:
$780
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,020
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$980
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$390
State Taxes:
Low:
4.4%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
86.1
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
68.0
Utilities:
93.0
Transportation:
92.0
Health Care:
99.0
Miscellaneous:
91.0
Crime
Is Central Heights, IA a safe place to live?
Central Heights offers a reassuringly safe environment, with violent crime rates at just 142 per 100,000 residents and property crime at 1,215 per 100,000. The odds of experiencing violent crime are low, making the city a comfortable choice for those prioritizing peace of mind. The town’s low overall crime index supports its reputation as a secure place to live.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
142
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,215
Crime Index:
1,357
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 705
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 82
Weather
What is the weather like in Central Heights, IA year-round?
Residents in Central Heights enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 84°F and cold winters dipping to 12°F. The city receives about 34.5 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 62% sunny days, providing a pleasant balance of sunshine and seasonal variety. This climate appeals to those who appreciate both outdoor activities and cozy winter days.
Winter
Min:
12°F
Max:
31°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
64°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
34.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Central Heights neighbors typically have a household income of $61,400 and a median income of $35,800, with a low unemployment rate of 3.2%. Most adults are high school graduates, and commute times are short—averaging just 18.4 minutes. The community's modest poverty rate and low reliance on public transportation highlight its comfortable, suburban lifestyle.
Median Income:
$35,800
Household Income:
$61,400
Family Income:
$71,200
Per Capita Income:
$28,900
Income Male:
$41,000
Income Female:
$32,400
Poverty Rate:
9.1%
Non English Speakers:
4.2%
Rent:
$780
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
18.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.5%
Bachelors or More:
27.4%
Education
How are the schools in Central Heights, IA?
Education in Central Heights is supported by both public and private options, including well-rated elementary and high schools with small class sizes. Families benefit from a strong educational foundation, and higher education is accessible with Iowa Central Community College just 28 miles away. The community values learning, reflected in its high rate of high school graduation.
Public Schools
Name:
Central Heights Elementary School
Street:
600 School Ln
Phone:
515-555-2100
Students:
410
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8
Name:
Central Heights High School
Street:
801 Main St
Phone:
515-555-2200
Students:
520
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.6
Private Schools
Name:
St. Michael's Academy
Street:
412 Church Ave
Phone:
515-555-3300
Students:
180
Colleges
Name:
Iowa Central Community College
City:
Fort Dodge
State:
IA
Distance:
28 miles
Students:
5,700
Healthcare
Healthcare needs are well-served in Central Heights, anchored by the local Central Heights Community Hospital offering emergency services. The city has 1.9 physicians per 1,000 residents and a high health insurance coverage rate of 92.4%. Residents benefit from accessible medical care and a reliable local hospital.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Central Heights Community Hospital
Address:
1400 Main St, Central Heights, IA 50000
Phone:
(555) 555-1234
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.4%
Health Care Index:
78.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Central Heights, IA?
The housing market in Central Heights is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $162,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $780. Owner-occupancy is high at nearly 72%, and home values have seen steady appreciation over the past year. Rental vacancy and foreclosure rates remain low, making it a solid place to invest in property.
Median Home Price:
$162,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$780
Owner Occupied Rate:
71.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Central Heights residents are served by the Iowa Motor Vehicle Division, conveniently located in nearby Ankeny and accessible online or by phone. The DMV provides essential vehicle registration and licensing services for all Iowa drivers. Easy access to state resources simplifies vehicle ownership and compliance.
State:
Iowa
Department:
Iowa Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
6310 SE Convenience Blvd, Ankeny, IA 50021
Phone:
1-800-532-1121
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.