Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Grinnell, IA
Grinnell, IA is a welcoming Midwest college town with about 9,180 residents and a median home price of $173,000, making it affordable for families and professionals alike. Commutes are easy, averaging just 13 minutes, and local rents are typically around $900 per month. Grinnell boasts a lower-than-average violent crime rate and is home to Grinnell College, offering excellent educational and cultural opportunities. Enjoy a blend of small-town charm, strong schools, a reasonable cost of living, and a sunny climate with 61% sunny days each year.
Demographics - Grinnell, IA
Demographics - Grinnell, IA
Grinnell is home to about 9,180 residents with a median age of 33, offering a youthful and diverse community. The city has a predominantly White population but also includes Black, Asian, and other ethnic groups, with over 6% speaking a language other than English. Its balanced gender ratio and moderate population density create a friendly, close-knit environment.
Population:
9,180
Density:
1,450 per sq mi
Median Age:
33.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.3%
Ethnic Composition
White:
88.7%
Black:
2.9%
Asian:
2.8%
Others:
5.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Grinnell, IA?
Grinnell offers an affordable lifestyle, with a median home value of $173,000 and average rents around $900 per month. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive option for families and young professionals. Utilities, groceries, and healthcare are also reasonably priced compared to many other U.S. cities.
Median House Value:
$173,000
Gross Rent:
$900
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$910
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,280
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$440
State Taxes:
Low:
0.33%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.4
Grocery:
92.3
Housing:
68.1
Utilities:
94.7
Transportation:
85.5
Health Care:
97.8
Miscellaneous:
89.0
Crime
Is Grinnell, IA a safe place to live?
Grinnell maintains a relatively low violent crime rate, with residents facing a 1 in 470 chance of experiencing such incidents. Property crime is more common but still manageable, contributing to a sense of safety for families and individuals. The overall crime index is modest, making the city a comfortable place to call home.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
212
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,450
Crime Index:
1,662
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 470
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 69
Weather
What is the weather like in Grinnell, IA year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 85°F and chilly winters dipping to 12°F. The city receives about 36.5 inches of rainfall annually, and 61% of its days are sunny, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Spring and fall are mild and pleasant, making Grinnell appealing year-round.
Winter
Min:
12°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
Grinnell's neighborhoods feature a median household income of $54,900 and a family income of $73,700, with a 13.2% poverty rate. Most residents enjoy short commutes averaging 13 minutes, and public transportation use is minimal. Educational attainment is high, with nearly 93% holding a high school diploma or higher.
Median Income:
$30,800
Household Income:
$54,900
Family Income:
$73,700
Per Capita Income:
$27,800
Income Male:
$41,200
Income Female:
$36,900
Poverty Rate:
13.2%
Non English Speakers:
6.3%
Rent:
$900
Unemployment Rate:
2.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
13.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.9%
Bachelors or More:
38.7%
Education
How are the schools in Grinnell, IA?
Grinnell offers quality public education through its local schools, such as Grinnell-Newburg High and Middle Schools, both known for favorable student-teacher ratios. Private education options and the presence of Grinnell College add to the city’s strong academic environment. These resources create excellent opportunities for students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Grinnell-Newburg High School
Street:
1333 Sunset St
Phone:
641-236-2720
Students:
550
Student Teacher Ratio:
13:1
Name:
Grinnell-Newburg Middle School
Street:
132 East St S
Phone:
641-236-2750
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
14:1
Private Schools
Name:
Central Iowa Christian School
Street:
201 380th Ave
Phone:
641-236-3000
Students:
60
Colleges
Name:
Grinnell College
City:
Grinnell
State:
IA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,700
Healthcare
Healthcare in Grinnell is easily accessible, anchored by UnityPoint Health - Grinnell Regional Medical Center, which provides comprehensive emergency and general care. The city has a strong ratio of 2.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and a high health insurance coverage rate of 93.7%. These resources ensure quality healthcare services for local families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
UnityPoint Health - Grinnell Regional Medical Center
Address:
210 4th Ave, Grinnell, IA 50112
Phone:
(641) 236-7511
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.7%
Health Care Index:
75.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Grinnell, IA?
Grinnell’s housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $173,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment around $900. About 62% of residents own their homes, and the area has a low foreclosure rate and steady home appreciation. The rental market offers good availability, making it easy to find suitable housing.
Median Home Price:
$173,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$900
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Vehicle services in Grinnell are managed by the Iowa Department of Transportation's Motor Vehicle Division, with the nearest main office located in Ankeny. Residents can access licensing, registration, and other DMV services both in-person and online. The department provides helpful resources and support for new and current drivers.
State:
Iowa
Department:
Iowa Department of Transportation – Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
6310 SE Convenience Blvd, Ankeny, IA 50021
Phone:
515-244-8725
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.