Iowa / Shelby County

Moving to Harlan, IA

Thinking of making a move to Harlan, 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 Harlan, IA

Considering a move to Harlan, IA? This welcoming community of 4,786 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $146,000 and average rents near $710. Commute times average 15 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (64% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Harlan's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Harlan, IA

Harlan has a population of 4,786 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 45 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 97% White, 1% Black, and 1% Asian residents, and over 4% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
4,786
Density
1,045 per sq mi
Median Age
45.2
Gender Ratio
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
3.5%

Ethnic Composition

White
97.1%
Black
0.6%
Asian
0.5%
Others
1.8%

Cost Of Living

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

The cost of living in Harlan is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 81.0. Median home values are around $146,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $710. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$146,000
Gross Rent
$710
Monthly Electricity Charges
$110
Auto Insurance
$950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,080
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$420
State Taxes
Low: 0.33%| High: 8.53%
Cost Of Living Index
81.0
Grocery
95.2
Housing
54.0
Utilities
97.1
Transportation
87.5
Health Care
108.7
Miscellaneous
85.0

Crime

Is Harlan, IA a safe place to live?

Harlan is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 182 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 86. 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
182
Property Crimes Per 100k
1,167
Crime Index
1,349
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 550
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 86

Weather

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

Harlan experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 86°F and cold winters dipping to 10°F. The area receives about 33 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 64% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
10°F
Max
30°F

Summer

Min
62°F
Max
86°F

Spring

Min
38°F
Max
65°F

Fall

Min
39°F
Max
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches
33.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
64%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $62,600 and a low poverty rate of 8.9%. Over 94% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 26% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 15 minutes, and almost 0% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$32,800
Household Income
$62,600
Family Income
$77,100
Per Capita Income
$31,500
Income Male
$43,500
Income Female
$33,000
Poverty Rate
8.9%
Non English Speakers
3.5%
Rent
$710
Unemployment Rate
2.9%
Public Transport Usage
0.2%
Commute Time
14.6 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
93.6%
Bachelors or More
25.5%

Education

How are the schools in Harlan, IA?

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

Public Schools

Name
Harlan Community High School
Street
2102 Durant St
Phone
712-755-2152
Students
460
Student Teacher Ratio
13.7
Name
Harlan Community Middle School
Street
2102 Durant St
Phone
712-755-3191
Students
340
Student Teacher Ratio
13.1

Private Schools

Name
Shelby County Catholic School
Street
2005 College Place
Phone
712-755-5634
Students
110

Colleges

Name
Iowa Western Community College
City
Council Bluffs
State
IA
Distance
45 miles
Students
5,400

Healthcare

Harlan residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like CHI Health Myrtue Medical Center nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 1.6 per 1,000 people and 94.2% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
CHI Health Myrtue Medical Center
Address
1213 Garfield Ave, Harlan, IA 51537
Phone
(712) 755-5161
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage
94.2%
Health Care Index
72.1

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Harlan, IA?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $146,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 71%. The market has seen a 3.4% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 6.0%. Harlan offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$146,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$710
Owner Occupied Rate
70.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate
6.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
3.4%
New Construction Rate
1.0%
Foreclosure Rate
0.3%

DMV Information

Residents of Harlan handle vehicle services through the Iowa Department of Transportation, conveniently located in Ankeny. 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
6310 SE Convenience Blvd, Ankeny, IA 50021
Phone
1-800-532-1121

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 Harlan, IA

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

Before moving to Harlan, review the core fields on this page: population 4,786, median home value $146,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $710, commute time 14.6 minutes, and sunny days percentage 64%.

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