Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Chariton, IA
Considering a move to Chariton, IA? With a friendly population of around 4,160, Chariton offers affordable living—median home prices are just $94,000 and average rents $720. Commute times are short at 18 minutes, and crime rates are lower than national averages. Residents enjoy 61% sunny days each year, and the local schools provide a supportive learning environment. Explore Chariton’s welcoming small-town charm, affordable housing, and easygoing lifestyle below!
Demographics - Chariton, IA
Demographics - Chariton, IA
Chariton is a close-knit community of about 4,160 residents, with a median age of 43.6 years and a population density of 1,070 per square mile. The city is predominantly White, and most residents speak English, fostering a friendly, familiar atmosphere for newcomers.
Population:
4,160
Density:
1,070 per sq mi
Median Age:
43.6
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
96.2%
Black:
0.6%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
2.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Chariton, IA?
Chariton offers a highly affordable cost of living, with median home values around $94,000 and average rents at $720 per month. Utility and grocery costs are moderate, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious families and individuals.
Median House Value:
$94,000
Gross Rent:
$720
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$125
Auto Insurance:
$980
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$920
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
0.33%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
76.5
Grocery:
95.0
Housing:
54.2
Utilities:
96.8
Transportation:
86.3
Health Care:
98.5
Miscellaneous:
91.0
Crime
Is Chariton, IA a safe place to live?
Chariton experiences lower crime rates than the national average, with a chance of violent crime at just 1 in 555. Residents generally enjoy a sense of safety, though it's wise to take typical precautions against property crime.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
180
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,650
Crime Index:
1,830
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 555
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 61
Weather
What is the weather like in Chariton, IA year-round?
Chariton features four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 85°F and chilly winters dipping to 13°F. The city enjoys 61% sunny days annually and receives about 36.5 inches of rainfall, creating a pleasant environment for outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
13°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
37°F
Max:
64°F
Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
Households in Chariton typically earn around $48,300, and the area maintains a low unemployment rate of 3.8%. Most neighbors have at least a high school diploma, and commute times are short, contributing to a relaxed, community-oriented lifestyle.
Median Income:
$30,900
Household Income:
$48,300
Family Income:
$61,100
Per Capita Income:
$25,200
Income Male:
$39,800
Income Female:
$28,200
Poverty Rate:
15.8%
Non English Speakers:
2.1%
Rent:
$720
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
17.6 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.8%
Bachelors or More:
16.5%
Education
How are the schools in Chariton, IA?
Chariton’s public schools offer supportive learning environments with low student-teacher ratios, and families have access to higher education at Indian Hills Community College in nearby Ottumwa. The majority of residents have completed high school, reflecting a community that values education.
Public Schools
Name:
Chariton High School
Street:
501 N Grand St
Phone:
641-774-5066
Students:
410
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Columbus Elementary School
Street:
1240 N 7th St
Phone:
641-774-4712
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.0
Colleges
Name:
Indian Hills Community College
City:
Ottumwa
State:
IA
Distance:
33 miles
Students:
3,700
Healthcare
Residents have convenient access to healthcare through the Lucas County Health Center, which provides emergency and general medical services. With 93% of locals insured and a good ratio of physicians per capita, healthcare is reliable and accessible.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Lucas County Health Center
Address:
1200 N 7th St, Chariton, IA 50049
Phone:
(641) 774-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.1%
Health Care Index:
78.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Chariton, IA?
Chariton's housing market is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $94,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of nearly 74%. Modest home appreciation and a healthy rental market offer options for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$94,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$700
Owner Occupied Rate:
73.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Driver and vehicle services are provided through the Iowa Department of Transportation, with the nearest main office located in Ankeny. Residents can access registration, licensing, and title services both in-person and online for added convenience.
State:
Iowa
Department:
Iowa Department of Transportation - 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.