Iowa / Winneshiek County

Moving to Decorah, IA

Thinking of making a move to Decorah, IA? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Decorah, IA

Considering a move to Decorah, IA? This welcoming community of 7,587 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $199,000 and average rents near $820. Commute times average 13 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (52% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Decorah's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Decorah, IA

Decorah has a population of 7,587 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 34 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 94% White, 1% Black, and 2% Asian residents, and over 5% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
7,587
Density
1,480 per sq mi
Median Age
33.9
Gender Ratio
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
5.1%

Ethnic Composition

White
93.6%
Black
1.2%
Asian
1.6%
Others
3.6%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Decorah, IA?

The cost of living in Decorah is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 85.0. Median home values are around $199,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $820. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$199,000
Gross Rent
$820
Monthly Electricity Charges
$110
Auto Insurance
$980
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,150
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$420
State Taxes
Low: 4.4%| High: 8.53%
Cost Of Living Index
85.0
Grocery
95.5
Housing
74.0
Utilities
92.0
Transportation
89.2
Health Care
97.4
Miscellaneous
90.6

Crime

Is Decorah, IA a safe place to live?

Decorah is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 110 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 102. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Iowa.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
110
Property Crimes Per 100k
980
Crime Index
1,090
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 910
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 102

Weather

What is the weather like in Decorah, IA year-round?

Decorah experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 83°F and cold winters dipping to 9°F. The area receives about 36 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 52% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
9°F
Max
28°F

Summer

Min
60°F
Max
83°F

Spring

Min
36°F
Max
66°F

Fall

Min
37°F
Max
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches
35.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
52%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $63,950 and a low poverty rate of 10.8%. Over 97% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 43% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 13 minutes, and almost 0% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$31,400
Household Income
$63,950
Family Income
$85,700
Per Capita Income
$31,400
Income Male
$44,900
Income Female
$36,200
Poverty Rate
10.8%
Non English Speakers
5.1%
Rent
$820
Unemployment Rate
2.6%
Public Transport Usage
0.4%
Commute Time
13.2 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
96.7%
Bachelors or More
43.1%

Education

How are the schools in Decorah, IA?

Decorah offers quality education options, with public schools like Decorah High School and John Cline Elementary School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Luther College and Northeast Iowa Community College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Decorah High School
Street
100 Claiborne Dr
Phone
563-382-3643
Students
570
Student Teacher Ratio
13.5
Name
John Cline Elementary School
Street
101 Claiborne Dr
Phone
563-382-3125
Students
380
Student Teacher Ratio
13.0

Private Schools

Name
St. Benedict School
Street
402 Rural Avenue
Phone
563-382-4668
Students
145

Colleges

Name
Luther College
City
Decorah
State
IA
Distance
0 miles
Students
1,800
Name
Northeast Iowa Community College
City
Calmar
State
IA
Distance
13 miles
Students
4,800

Healthcare

Decorah residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like WinnMed (Winneshiek Medical Center) nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 2.1 per 1,000 people and 96.8% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
WinnMed (Winneshiek Medical Center)
Address
901 Montgomery St, Decorah, IA 52101
Phone
(563) 382-2911
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage
96.8%
Health Care Index
77.2

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Decorah, IA?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $199,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 66%. The market has seen a 6.2% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 6.1%. Decorah offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$199,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$820
Owner Occupied Rate
66.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
6.2%
New Construction Rate
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate
0.3%

DMV Information

Residents of Decorah handle vehicle services through the Iowa Department of Transportation, conveniently located in Decorah. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Iowa
Department
Iowa Department of Transportation
Address
2101 E. Main St., Decorah, IA 52101
Phone
(515) 244-8725

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.

FAQs About Moving to Decorah, IA

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Decorah, review the core fields on this page: population 7,587, median home value $199,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $820, commute time 13.2 minutes, and sunny days percentage 52%.

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