Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Fairfield, IA
Considering a move to Fairfield, IA? With a friendly small-town vibe and a population of 9,400, Fairfield boasts affordable living—median home prices are around $148,000 and average rents just $795. Residents enjoy short 14-minute commutes, low utility costs, and a vibrant community with Maharishi International University at its heart. Crime rates are below the national average, schools are well-rated, and the area gets about 59% sunny days per year, making Fairfield a welcoming and budget-friendly place to settle in southeast Iowa.
Demographics - Fairfield, IA
Demographics - Fairfield, IA
Fairfield, Iowa is a close-knit community of about 9,400 residents with a median age of 41, reflecting a balanced mix of families and professionals. The city is predominantly White, but also includes Asian, Black, and other minorities, contributing to its cultural diversity. Around 8% of residents speak a language other than English, creating a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers.
Population:
9,416
Density:
1,350 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
89.5%
Black:
2.4%
Asian:
4.1%
Others:
4.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Fairfield, IA?
Fairfield offers an affordable cost of living, with median home values at $148,000 and average rents at $795, making it attractive for both renters and buyers. Utility and transportation expenses are below national averages, and the overall cost of living index is 81.7. State taxes range moderately, helping residents manage household budgets comfortably.
Median House Value:
$148,000
Gross Rent:
$795
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,210
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,150
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$430
State Taxes:
Low:
4.4%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.7
Grocery:
94.5
Housing:
62.0
Utilities:
94.0
Transportation:
81.5
Health Care:
94.7
Miscellaneous:
90.1
Crime
Is Fairfield, IA a safe place to live?
Fairfield experiences lower-than-average crime rates, with violent crimes at 246 per 100,000 residents and property crimes at 1,560 per 100,000. The odds of being a victim are relatively low, making it a safe community for families and individuals. This provides peace of mind for those considering a move to the area.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
246
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,560
Crime Index:
1,806
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 406
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 64
Weather
What is the weather like in Fairfield, IA year-round?
Residents of Fairfield enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 86°F and cold winters dipping to 15°F. The city receives about 39 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 59% sunny days, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Seasonal changes offer a classic Midwestern climate experience.
Winter
Min:
15°F
Max:
34°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
39.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
59%
Neighbors
The median household income in Fairfield is approximately $48,500, with about 16% of the population living below the poverty line. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and over 40% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Commute times are short, averaging just under 14 minutes, and unemployment remains low.
Median Income:
$27,330
Household Income:
$48,490
Family Income:
$65,100
Per Capita Income:
$28,900
Income Male:
$37,500
Income Female:
$29,400
Poverty Rate:
16.2%
Non English Speakers:
7.8%
Rent:
$795
Unemployment Rate:
3.4%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
13.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.9%
Bachelors or More:
41.2%
Education
How are the schools in Fairfield, IA?
Fairfield is home to well-regarded public schools, including Fairfield High School and Fairfield Middle School, both known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. The city also hosts the private Maharishi School and the renowned Maharishi International University, offering diverse educational opportunities from preschool to higher education. Nearby, Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa further expands local access to post-secondary programs.
Public Schools
Name:
Fairfield High School
Street:
605 E Broadway Ave
Phone:
641-472-2059
Students:
550
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.1
Name:
Fairfield Middle School
Street:
404 W Fillmore Ave
Phone:
641-472-5019
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.9
Private Schools
Name:
Maharishi School
Street:
804 N 4th St
Phone:
641-472-9400
Students:
220
Colleges
Name:
Maharishi International University
City:
Fairfield
State:
IA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,600
Name:
Indian Hills Community College
City:
Ottumwa
State:
IA
Distance:
22 miles
Students:
3,500
Healthcare
Fairfield provides quality healthcare access, anchored by Jefferson County Health Center which offers acute care and emergency services. There are 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 92% of locals have health insurance coverage. The city’s healthcare index of 70.8 reflects reliable and accessible medical services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Jefferson County Health Center
Address:
2000 S Main St, Fairfield, IA 52556
Phone:
(641) 472-4111
Type:
Acute Care & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.4%
Health Care Index:
70.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Fairfield, IA?
The Fairfield housing market is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $148,000 and a 62.7% owner-occupancy rate. Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $795, and the area has a modest home appreciation rate of 3.4% over the past year. Vacancy and foreclosure rates remain low, indicating a healthy real estate environment.
Median Home Price:
$148,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$795
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.4%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Residents can access driver and vehicle services locally through the Iowa Department of Transportation office at 2730 N. Court St in Fairfield. Services include licensing, registration, and other motor vehicle needs, with convenient in-person and online options. For more information, the official website and phone support are readily available.
State:
Iowa
Department:
Iowa Department of Transportation
Address:
2730 N. Court St, Fairfield, IA 52556
Phone:
641-472-3451
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.