Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Dows, IA
Considering a move to Dows, IA? This small town of about 475 residents offers exceptionally affordable living, with median home prices around $69,000 and average rents at $600. Residents enjoy a low cost of living, short average commutes of 21.5 minutes, and low crime rates compared to national averages. While education and healthcare access are solid for a rural community, the area boasts a friendly, close-knit atmosphere and four distinct seasons with plenty of sunny days. Dows is ideal for those seeking quiet, affordable Midwestern living.
Demographics - Dows, IA
Dows is a small, close-knit community with a population of about 475 residents and a median age of 49, reflecting a mature demographic. The town is predominantly White and maintains a nearly even gender balance, with a limited percentage of non-English speakers. This rural setting appeals to those seeking a quiet lifestyle in a low-density environment.
Population:
475
Density:
400 per sq mi
Median Age:
49.0
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
95.8%
Black:
0.2%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
4.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Dows, IA?
Dows offers an exceptionally low cost of living, with median home values at $69,000 and average rents around $600 per month. The cost of living index is notably below the national average, making it an affordable choice for individuals and families. Housing, utilities, and groceries are all budget-friendly compared to many other regions.
Median House Value:
$69,000
Gross Rent:
$600
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$900
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$380
State Taxes:
Low:
0.33%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
79.0
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
54.0
Utilities:
96.0
Transportation:
93.0
Health Care:
98.0
Miscellaneous:
87.0
Crime
Is Dows, IA a safe place to live?
Dows boasts a relatively low crime rate, with violent crime significantly below the national average and property crime presenting a manageable risk. Residents have a 1 in 570 chance of experiencing violent crime, contributing to the town's reputation as a safe place to live. The community's peaceful environment is well-suited for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
175
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,200
Crime Index:
1,375
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 570
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 83
Weather
What is the weather like in Dows, IA year-round?
Residents of Dows experience all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 10°F and warm summers reaching highs of 84°F. The area receives about 33.6 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 60% of the year. This climate is ideal for those who appreciate a variety of seasonal activities and picturesque changes throughout the year.

Winter
Min:
10°F
Max:
29°F

Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
65°F

Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
84°F

Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
33.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
The median household income in Dows is about $50,000, with a modest poverty rate and a low unemployment rate of 3.5%. Most residents commute roughly 21.5 minutes to work, and public transportation usage is minimal. The community is well-educated, with over 90% holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$31,500
Household Income:
$50,000
Family Income:
$64,000
Per Capita Income:
$25,400
Income Male:
$32,000
Income Female:
$29,000
Poverty Rate:
10.8%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$600
Unemployment Rate:
3.5%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
21.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
90.3%
Bachelors or More:
15.2%
Education
How are the schools in Dows, IA?
Dows is served by Clarion-Goldfield-Dows Elementary School, offering a favorable student-to-teacher ratio and a supportive educational environment. Nearby higher education options include Ellsworth Community College, just 26 miles away. The community values education, with strong local support for its schools and learning resources.

Public Schools
Name:
Clarion-Goldfield-Dows Elementary School
Street:
1111 Goldfield Rd
Phone:
515-532-2873
Students:
450
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5

Colleges
Name:
Ellsworth Community College
City:
Iowa Falls
State:
IA
Distance:
26 miles
Students:
850
Healthcare
Dows residents have access to quality healthcare, with two major hospitals nearby and 93% of the population covered by health insurance. The area maintains a favorable healthcare index and a solid ratio of physicians per capita. Emergency medical services are readily available in neighboring towns.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Iowa Specialty Hospital - Clarion
Address:
1316 S Main St, Clarion, IA 50525
Phone:
(515) 532-2811
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Franklin General Hospital
Address:
1720 Central Ave E, Hampton, IA 50441
Phone:
(641) 456-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.0%
Health Care Index:
77.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Dows, IA?
The housing market in Dows is notably affordable, featuring a median home price of $69,000 and high owner-occupancy rates around 80%. Rental options are available, with average two-bedroom rent at approximately $600 and a healthy vacancy rate. The local market has seen steady home appreciation, making it attractive for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$69,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$600
Owner Occupied Rate:
80.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Dows residents are managed by the Iowa Department of Transportation, with the nearest office in Ankeny. The department provides comprehensive resources for licensing, registration, and vehicle-related needs both in-person and online. Residents benefit from accessible DMV support through the state's official website and helpline.
State:
Iowa
Department:
Iowa Department of Transportation
Address:
6310 SE Convenience Blvd, Ankeny, IA 50021
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.