Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Dakota City, NE
Considering a move to Dakota City, NE? With a small-town vibe and a population just over 2,000, this city offers affordable living with median home prices near $135,000 and average rents around $850. Commute times are short at about 17 minutes, crime rates are low, and you’ll enjoy 60% sunny days per year. Dakota City is family-friendly, featuring a local elementary school and close access to healthcare and higher education options in nearby Sioux City.
Demographics - Dakota City, NE
Demographics - Dakota City, NE
Dakota City has a close-knit community of just over 2,000 residents, with a youthful median age of 31.9 and a population density that provides a small-town feel. The city is notably diverse, with over a quarter of residents speaking a language other than English at home, and a significant portion identifying as Hispanic or Latino. This vibrant mix creates a welcoming and multicultural atmosphere for newcomers.
Population:
2,081
Density:
1,265 per sq mi
Median Age:
31.9
Gender Ratio:
104 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
25.7%

Ethnic Composition
White:
60.5%
Black:
0.8%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
37.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Dakota City, NE?
Living in Dakota City is highly affordable, with a cost of living index well below the national average and median home values at $135,000. Renters can expect average rates around $850 per month, while utilities and daily expenses also remain budget-friendly. Nebraska’s moderate state taxes and low housing costs make this city especially attractive for families and first-time homeowners.
Median House Value:
$135,000
Gross Rent:
$850
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,100
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,150
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$400
State Taxes:
Low:
2.46%
|
High:
6.84%
Cost Of Living Index:
86.3
Grocery:
95.0
Housing:
58.0
Utilities:
99.0
Transportation:
88.0
Health Care:
97.0
Miscellaneous:
94.0
Crime
Is Dakota City, NE a safe place to live?
Dakota City boasts a low crime rate, with violent crimes occurring at a rate of just 176 per 100,000 residents and property crime rates well below national averages. Residents enjoy a strong sense of safety, making it a reassuring choice for families and those seeking peace of mind. The odds of experiencing a violent crime are about 1 in 568, underscoring the city’s secure environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
176
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,490
Crime Index:
1,666
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 568
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 67
Weather
What is the weather like in Dakota City, NE year-round?
Residents of Dakota City experience all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows around 11°F and warm summers reaching up to 86°F. The area enjoys 60% sunny days annually and moderate rainfall, making it ideal for those who appreciate varied weather and outdoor activities. Seasonal changes bring a blend of crisp autumns, mild springs, and comfortable summers.

Winter
Min:
11°F
Max:
32°F

Spring
Min:
37°F
Max:
65°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
86°F

Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
29.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
Dakota City offers a mix of incomes and backgrounds, with median household income at $64,286 and a poverty rate slightly above 14%. Most residents commute less than 17 minutes to work, and public transportation use is minimal, reflecting the community's small-town nature. A strong sense of community is fostered by local schools, diverse neighbors, and a high rate of homeownership.
Median Income:
$29,000
Household Income:
$64,286
Family Income:
$68,900
Per Capita Income:
$23,800
Income Male:
$38,000
Income Female:
$29,800
Poverty Rate:
14.8%
Non English Speakers:
25.7%
Rent:
$850
Unemployment Rate:
3.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
16.9 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
82.5%
Bachelors or More:
16.2%
Education
How are the schools in Dakota City, NE?
Education in Dakota City is anchored by Dakota City Elementary School, which maintains a favorable student-teacher ratio and serves as a community hub. While there are no private schools within city limits, higher education opportunities are accessible nearby, including Northeast Community College just three miles away. Families benefit from a supportive public school system and proximity to several reputable colleges.

Public Schools
Name:
Dakota City Elementary School
Street:
1801 Locust St
Phone:
402-987-3367
Students:
360
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5

Colleges
Name:
Northeast Community College - South Sioux City
City:
South Sioux City
State:
NE
Distance:
3 miles
Students:
1,000
Name:
Briar Cliff University
City:
Sioux City
State:
IA
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Access to quality healthcare is readily available, with several major hospitals nearby and nearly 90% of residents carrying health insurance. The city is served by 1.7 physicians per 1,000 people, and hospitals such as Dunes Surgical Hospital and UnityPoint Health are within a short drive. Local healthcare services, emergency care, and general practitioners ensure residents’ medical needs are well met.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Dunes Surgical Hospital
Address:
101 S Sodrac Dr, Dakota Dunes, SD 57049
Phone:
(605) 217-2800
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
UnityPoint Health - St. Luke's
Address:
2720 Stone Park Blvd, Sioux City, IA 51104
Phone:
(712) 279-3500
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.2%
Health Care Index:
67.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Dakota City, NE?
The housing market in Dakota City is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $135,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 78.1%. Rental options are available at an average of $850 for a two-bedroom unit, and the area sees modest home appreciation, making it appealing for both buyers and investors. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates suggest a healthy, competitive market.
Median Home Price:
$135,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$850
Owner Occupied Rate:
78.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents of Dakota City are served by the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles, with resources available both online and at the nearest Omaha branch. The DMV provides essential services such as licensing, registration, and title applications, making vehicle management straightforward for locals. Helpful staff and a user-friendly website ensure convenient access to all necessary motor vehicle services.
State:
Nebraska
Department:
Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1313 Farnam St, Omaha, NE 68102
Phone:
402-471-3985
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.