Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Council Bluffs, IA
Considering a move to Council Bluffs, IA? With a welcoming population of nearly 63,000 and affordable median home prices around $185,000, this city offers a low cost of living and short average commutes of just under 19 minutes. Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, 60% sunny days, and access to quality healthcare and educational options, including Iowa Western Community College. While property crime rates are above national averages, Council Bluffs features a friendly community, easy access to Omaha, and a balanced lifestyle ideal for families or professionals.
Demographics - Council Bluffs, IA
Demographics - Council Bluffs, IA
Council Bluffs is home to nearly 63,000 residents, with a median age of 37.8 and a balanced gender ratio. The city is predominantly White (84%), with a growing diversity and about 7% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density offers a suburban feel while maintaining community connections.
Population:
62,799
Density:
1,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
37.8
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.7%
Ethnic Composition
White:
84.1%
Black:
2.3%
Asian:
1.4%
Others:
12.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Council Bluffs, IA?
Living in Council Bluffs is affordable, with a median home value of $185,000 and median rent around $940. The overall cost of living index is 85.2, well below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families and individuals. Utilities and transportation costs also remain reasonable, supporting a comfortable lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$185,000
Gross Rent:
$940
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,020
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,300
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$450
State Taxes:
Low:
4.4%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
85.2
Grocery:
93.5
Housing:
62.3
Utilities:
97.1
Transportation:
87.2
Health Care:
94.8
Miscellaneous:
89.0
Crime
Is Council Bluffs, IA a safe place to live?
Council Bluffs experiences higher property crime rates compared to the national average, with a 1 in 43 chance of being affected, but violent crime remains relatively low at 314 cases per 100,000 residents. Residents should take standard precautions, but the city remains a welcoming community for families and newcomers. Local law enforcement is proactive in maintaining safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
314
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,320
Crime Index:
2,634
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 318
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 43
Weather
What is the weather like in Council Bluffs, IA year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons in Council Bluffs, with warm summers reaching highs near 87°F and cold winters dipping to 16°F. The city receives about 33 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 60% sunny days, offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities throughout the year. Seasonal changes provide a classic Midwestern climate experience.
Winter
Min:
16°F
Max:
34°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
66°F
Summer
Min:
64°F
Max:
87°F
Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
Council Bluffs offers a strong sense of community, with a median household income of $59,200 and a family income of $74,100. Most residents achieve at least a high school education, and average commute times are short at just under 19 minutes. The poverty rate is 13.5%, but local employment opportunities and affordable rents enhance quality of life.
Median Income:
$33,800
Household Income:
$59,200
Family Income:
$74,100
Per Capita Income:
$29,100
Income Male:
$44,700
Income Female:
$36,200
Poverty Rate:
13.5%
Non English Speakers:
6.7%
Rent:
$940
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
18.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
90.8%
Bachelors or More:
20.2%
Education
How are the schools in Council Bluffs, IA?
Council Bluffs provides a range of educational opportunities, including highly attended public schools like Abraham Lincoln High and nearby Iowa Western Community College. With student-teacher ratios around 14–15 and private school options, families have access to quality learning environments. The city’s proximity to higher education institutions supports lifelong learning and career development.
Public Schools
Name:
Abraham Lincoln High School
Street:
1205 Bonham Ave
Phone:
712-328-6481
Students:
1,300
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Name:
Wilson Middle School
Street:
715 N 21st St
Phone:
712-328-6471
Students:
630
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7
Private Schools
Name:
St. Albert Catholic Schools
Street:
400 Gleason Ave
Phone:
712-329-9000
Students:
650
Colleges
Name:
Iowa Western Community College
City:
Council Bluffs
State:
IA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
5,900
Name:
University of Nebraska Omaha
City:
Omaha
State:
NE
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
15,900
Healthcare
Residents have access to quality healthcare services, including two major hospitals with emergency care and a physician rate of 1.7 per 1,000 people. Over 91% of locals have health insurance coverage, ensuring most families can access the care they need. Council Bluffs’ healthcare index reflects reliable and comprehensive medical support.
Major Hospitals
Name:
CHI Health Mercy Council Bluffs
Address:
800 Mercy Dr, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Phone:
(712) 328-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital
Address:
933 E Pierce St, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Phone:
(712) 396-6000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.4%
Health Care Index:
77.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Council Bluffs, IA?
The housing market in Council Bluffs is accessible, with a median home price of $185,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $940. Owner occupancy is high at 61%, and the area has seen steady home appreciation, making it appealing for both buyers and renters. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates indicate a stable market environment.
Median Home Price:
$185,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$940
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Council Bluffs residents are managed by the Iowa Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicle Division, with convenient access to information and appointments online. The main office is located in Ankeny, and residents can find comprehensive resources for licensing and registration needs. Customer support is available via phone and website.
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.