Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Charles City, IA
Thinking about relocating to Charles City, IA? With a friendly population of just over 7,300, this community offers affordable living—median home prices are around $112,000 and average rents are $720. Commutes are a breeze at under 14 minutes, and the cost of living index is well below the national average. Residents enjoy a safe, close-knit environment, decent schools, and four full seasons with 54% sunny days each year. Whether you’re seeking a quieter lifestyle or a great place for families, Charles City could be a perfect fit.
Demographics - Charles City, IA
Demographics - Charles City, IA
Charles City is home to about 7,300 residents, with a population density that supports a small-town atmosphere. The median age of 42 suggests a balanced mix of working adults and retirees, and the community is predominantly White with a low percentage of non-English speakers, contributing to a cohesive local culture.
Population:
7,307
Density:
1,250 per sq mi
Median Age:
42.1
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
92.7%
Black:
1.8%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
4.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Charles City, IA?
Living in Charles City is affordable, with a median home value of $112,000 and average rent around $720, making it attractive for both buyers and renters. The overall cost of living index is 78.2, well below the national average, and essentials like groceries, utilities, and healthcare are generally budget-friendly.
Median House Value:
$112,000
Gross Rent:
$720
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$1,020
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$990
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
0.33%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.2
Grocery:
95.4
Housing:
62.1
Utilities:
92.3
Transportation:
84.5
Health Care:
94.7
Miscellaneous:
91.9
Crime
Is Charles City, IA a safe place to live?
Charles City offers a relatively safe environment, with violent crime rates lower than many similar-sized towns—your chance of experiencing a violent crime is about 1 in 455. Property crime is more common but still manageable, making it a comfortable place for families and individuals alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
220
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,480
Crime Index:
1,700
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 455
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 68
Weather
What is the weather like in Charles City, IA year-round?
Residents of Charles City experience all four seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 83°F, chilly winters dipping to 10°F, and about 54% sunny days throughout the year. The area receives moderate rainfall, making it suitable for those who appreciate a classic midwestern climate.
Winter
Min:
10°F
Max:
28°F
Spring
Min:
34°F
Max:
64°F
Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
37°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
33.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
The median household income in Charles City is $51,250, reflecting a modest but stable economic environment. Most residents enjoy short commutes of about 14 minutes, a low unemployment rate, and a high rate of high school graduates, fostering a friendly and close-knit community.
Median Income:
$31,400
Household Income:
$51,250
Family Income:
$66,800
Per Capita Income:
$27,100
Income Male:
$39,500
Income Female:
$31,800
Poverty Rate:
13.4%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$720
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
13.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.8%
Bachelors or More:
20.2%
Education
How are the schools in Charles City, IA?
Educational opportunities in Charles City include solid public schools like Charles City High School, with favorable student-teacher ratios, as well as private and nearby college options. The city’s educational environment supports lifelong learning for families and students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Charles City High School
Street:
1 Comet Dr
Phone:
641-257-6510
Students:
480
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.7
Name:
Charles City Middle School
Street:
1200 1st Ave
Phone:
641-257-6530
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.9
Private Schools
Name:
Immaculate Conception School
Street:
1203 Clark St
Phone:
641-228-2553
Students:
160
Colleges
Name:
North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC) - Charles City Center
City:
Charles City
State:
IA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
200
Name:
Wartburg College
City:
Waverly
State:
IA
Distance:
31 miles
Students:
1,500
Healthcare
Healthcare needs are well served in Charles City, with Floyd County Medical Center providing general and emergency services. The area has a strong health insurance coverage rate of nearly 94% and a physician presence that supports residents’ well-being.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Floyd County Medical Center
Address:
800 11th St, Charles City, IA 50616
Phone:
(641) 228-6830
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.8%
Health Care Index:
78.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Charles City, IA?
Charles City’s housing market is accessible, with a median home price of $112,000 and a majority of homes owner-occupied. Modest rent prices and a steady appreciation rate make the city an appealing option for both homeowners and renters.
Median Home Price:
$112,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$740
Owner Occupied Rate:
68.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Motor vehicle services for Charles City residents are provided by the Iowa Department of Transportation, offering convenient access to licensing and registration both online and at statewide locations.
State:
Iowa
Department:
Iowa Department of Transportation - Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
100 E Euclid Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313
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.