Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Emmetsburg, IA
Considering a move to Emmetsburg, IA? This welcoming city of 3,730 residents offers a low cost of living, with median home prices around $108,000 and average rents near $720. Crime rates are low, and you’ll enjoy short commutes averaging 12 minutes. Emmetsburg features quality schools, a close-knit community, and four distinct seasons with 57% sunny days a year. Affordable, safe, and family-friendly, Emmetsburg is a great choice for those seeking small-town Iowa charm.
Demographics - Emmetsburg, IA
Demographics - Emmetsburg, IA
Emmetsburg is home to approximately 3,730 residents, with a median age of 43.6 that reflects a well-balanced, mature community. The city is predominantly White at 95.8% and maintains a close gender ratio, fostering a welcoming, small-town atmosphere with a modest proportion of non-English speakers.
Population:
3,730
Density:
1,080 per sq mi
Median Age:
43.6
Gender Ratio:
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
95.8%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
3.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Emmetsburg, IA?
With a cost of living index of 82.5, Emmetsburg is notably affordable, offering median home values near $108,000 and average rents around $720. Utilities and everyday expenses are also budget-friendly, making the city attractive for families and retirees seeking value in housing and daily life.
Median House Value:
$108,000
Gross Rent:
$720
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$425
State Taxes:
Low:
0.33%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.5
Grocery:
93.4
Housing:
54.7
Utilities:
92.0
Transportation:
89.2
Health Care:
94.1
Miscellaneous:
97.3
Crime
Is Emmetsburg, IA a safe place to live?
Emmetsburg maintains a low crime rate, with only 162 violent crimes and 1,340 property crimes per 100,000 residents, resulting in a 1 in 617 chance of experiencing a violent crime. Residents benefit from a safe environment, making it a comfortable place to settle down or raise a family.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
162
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,340
Crime Index:
1,502
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 617
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 75
Weather
What is the weather like in Emmetsburg, IA year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 7°F and warm summers reaching up to 83°F. The city enjoys about 57% sunny days annually and receives moderate rainfall, offering a typical Midwestern climate ideal for those who appreciate seasonal variety.
Winter
Min:
7°F
Max:
27°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
63°F
Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
31 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
Emmetsburg's neighborhoods feature a median household income of $52,700 and a low unemployment rate of 3.2%. Most residents have short commutes of just over 12 minutes, and the community boasts a high rate of educational attainment, with over 91% holding a high school diploma or higher.
Median Income:
$33,200
Household Income:
$52,700
Family Income:
$66,100
Per Capita Income:
$28,900
Income Male:
$39,000
Income Female:
$31,500
Poverty Rate:
10.6%
Non English Speakers:
4.2%
Rent:
$720
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
12.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.8%
Bachelors or More:
22.6%
Education
How are the schools in Emmetsburg, IA?
Emmetsburg offers quality education with public schools like Emmetsburg High School and West Elementary, both maintaining low student-to-teacher ratios. The city also hosts Iowa Lakes Community College, providing accessible higher education and workforce training opportunities.
Public Schools
Name:
Emmetsburg High School
Street:
205 King St
Phone:
712-852-2966
Students:
310
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.4
Name:
West Elementary School
Street:
602 Call St
Phone:
712-852-4485
Students:
295
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.1
Private Schools
Name:
Emmetsburg Catholic School
Street:
1903 W Main St
Phone:
712-852-3464
Students:
90
Colleges
Name:
Iowa Lakes Community College
City:
Emmetsburg
State:
IA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,600
Healthcare
Healthcare in Emmetsburg is anchored by Palo Alto County Health System, which provides comprehensive general and emergency services. With 1.6 physicians per 1,000 people and nearly 93% health insurance coverage, residents have reliable access to medical care close to home.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Palo Alto County Health System
Address:
3201 1st St, Emmetsburg, IA 50536
Phone:
(712) 852-5500
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.7%
Health Care Index:
73.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Emmetsburg, IA?
The housing market in Emmetsburg is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $108,000 and an owner-occupancy rate of 73.5%. Modest rent costs and a low foreclosure rate contribute to a secure and appealing environment for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$108,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$720
Owner Occupied Rate:
73.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents can access vehicle and licensing services through the Iowa Department of Transportation, with the nearest office located in Spencer. The state provides comprehensive DMV resources both in-person and online, ensuring convenience for drivers and new residents.
State:
Iowa
Department:
Iowa Department of Transportation
Address:
1300 S Grand Ave, Spencer, IA 51301
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.