Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Clayton Center, IA
Considering a move to Clayton Center, IA? This peaceful rural community of about 80 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $115,000 and average rents at $650. Residents enjoy a low crime rate (80 violent crimes per 100k), short average commute times of 20 minutes, and a welcoming, close-knit environment. With strong public schools nearby, easy access to healthcare, and four-season weather with 56% sunny days, Clayton Center is a great choice for those seeking small-town charm and value.
Demographics - Clayton Center, IA
Demographics - Clayton Center, IA
Clayton Center is a small, close-knit community of around 80 residents, predominantly White, with a median age of 45.7 and a nearly even gender balance. The area has a low population density and very few non-English speakers, fostering a rural, neighborly atmosphere.
Population:
~80
Density:
~80 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.7
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.1%

Ethnic Composition
White:
96.5%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.3%
Others:
2.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Clayton Center, IA?
Living in Clayton Center is affordable, with a median home value of $115,000 and average rents around $650. The overall cost of living is well below the national average, making it attractive for those seeking budget-friendly housing and everyday expenses.
Median House Value:
$115,000
Gross Rent:
$650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,200
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$350
State Taxes:
Low:
0.33%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
85.2
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
67.4
Utilities:
99.2
Transportation:
86.3
Health Care:
93.1
Miscellaneous:
90.0
Crime
Is Clayton Center, IA a safe place to live?
Clayton Center experiences very low crime, with only 80 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 1,250 chance of being affected. Property crime rates are also minimal, contributing to a safe and welcoming small-town environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
80
Property Crimes Per 100k:
560
Crime Index:
640
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,250
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 180
Weather
What is the weather like in Clayton Center, IA year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 82°F and cold winters dipping to 8°F. The town receives about 34.6 inches of annual rainfall and has sunny weather 56% of the year, offering a balanced Midwestern climate.

Winter
Min:
8°F
Max:
28°F

Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
82°F

Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
34.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
Local households have a median income of $56,500, with a low unemployment rate of 2.8% and a poverty rate of just 8.2%. Most adults have completed high school, and the average commute time is a manageable 20 minutes, reflecting a stable and supportive community.
Median Income:
$32,000
Household Income:
$56,500
Family Income:
$68,000
Per Capita Income:
$29,800
Income Male:
$38,200
Income Female:
$31,100
Poverty Rate:
8.2%
Non English Speakers:
2.1%
Rent:
$650
Unemployment Rate:
2.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
20.3 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
93.8%
Bachelors or More:
19.5%
Education
How are the schools in Clayton Center, IA?
Families in Clayton Center benefit from strong public education options, including a well-rated local school with a favorable student-teacher ratio. Nearby private schools and a community college within 35 miles provide additional educational opportunities for all ages.

Public Schools
Name:
Central Community School
Street:
400 1st St NW, Elkader, IA 52043
Phone:
563-245-1750
Students:
550
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.6

Private Schools
Name:
St. Mary IC School
Street:
132 S 6th St, Guttenberg, IA 52052
Phone:
563-252-1577
Students:
110

Colleges
Name:
Northeast Iowa Community College
City:
Calmar
State:
IA
Distance:
35 miles
Students:
4,700
Healthcare
Clayton Center residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals nearby offering emergency services and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 92.9%. The community has a moderate number of physicians per capita, ensuring reliable medical care.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Crossing Rivers Health
Address:
37868 US-18, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821
Phone:
(608) 357-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Guttenberg Municipal Hospital
Address:
200 Main St, Guttenberg, IA 52052
Phone:
(563) 252-1121
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.9%
Health Care Index:
78.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Clayton Center, IA?
The housing market is stable and affordable, with median home prices at $115,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 81.2%. Homes appreciate modestly each year, and rental options are available with minimal vacancies, making it easy to find comfortable housing.
Median Home Price:
$115,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$650
Owner Occupied Rate:
81.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents handle licensing and vehicle services through the Iowa Department of Transportation in Ankeny, with resources and appointments available online or by phone. The process is streamlined for Iowa drivers and newcomers alike.
State:
Iowa
Department:
Iowa Department of Transportation - Motor Vehicle Division
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.