Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Iola, KS
Considering a move to Iola, KS? This friendly town of 5,230 residents offers a very affordable cost of living, with median home prices around $72,400 and average rent at just $670. Commutes average only 14 minutes, and local schools like Iola High and Allen Community College serve the community. While the property crime rate is higher than average, residents enjoy 61% sunny days a year and a classic four-season climate. Iola is a relaxed, budget-friendly place with small-town charm and essential amenities.
Demographics - Iola, KS
Iola, Kansas is a small, close-knit community of about 5,230 people with a median age of 39.1 years. The city has a predominantly White population, a balanced gender ratio, and a modest percentage of residents who speak a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density fosters a welcoming, small-town atmosphere.
Population:
5,230
Density:
1,090 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.1
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.3%

Ethnic Composition
White:
88.2%
Black:
2.4%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
8.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Iola, KS?
Living in Iola is notably affordable, with a median home value of around $72,400 and average rent at $670 per month. The cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive choice for budget-minded individuals and families. Daily expenses like groceries, utilities, and transportation are generally lower than in larger cities.
Median House Value:
$72,400
Gross Rent:
$670
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$1,240
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$360
State Taxes:
Low:
3.1%
|
High:
5.7%
Cost Of Living Index:
74.5
Grocery:
89.2
Housing:
48.0
Utilities:
95.0
Transportation:
86.5
Health Care:
92.4
Miscellaneous:
81.0
Crime
Is Iola, KS a safe place to live?
Iola experiences a higher-than-average property crime rate, with a chance of 1 in 42 for such incidents, while violent crime remains relatively low. Residents should take basic precautions, but overall, the community maintains a sense of safety common to small towns. The local crime index suggests awareness, but not alarm, for newcomers.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
338
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,375
Crime Index:
2,713
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 296
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 42
Weather
What is the weather like in Iola, KS year-round?
Iola enjoys a classic four-season climate, with warm summers peaking around 89°F and cool winters averaging lows near 21°F. The area receives about 41 inches of annual rainfall and boasts 61% sunny days, providing a pleasant balance of weather for outdoor activities year-round. Spring and fall offer comfortable, mild temperatures ideal for enjoying the outdoors.

Winter
Min:
21°F
Max:
43°F

Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
70°F

Summer
Min:
66°F
Max:
89°F

Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
74°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
41.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
The community in Iola has a median household income of $41,000 and a family income of $55,800, reflecting a modest cost of living and a strong sense of local connection. Most residents commute just under 14 minutes to work, and the poverty rate stands at 18.5%, with nearly 88% holding at least a high school diploma. The area is characterized by its affordability and friendly, hardworking neighbors.
Median Income:
$24,500
Household Income:
$41,000
Family Income:
$55,800
Per Capita Income:
$22,300
Income Male:
$36,200
Income Female:
$27,800
Poverty Rate:
18.5%
Non English Speakers:
6.3%
Rent:
$670
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
13.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
87.8%
Bachelors or More:
16.3%
Education
How are the schools in Iola, KS?
Iola offers quality educational opportunities, featuring public schools like Iola High School, known for small class sizes, and Jefferson Elementary, both serving local families. The city is also home to Allen Community College, providing higher education options right in town for over 1,400 students. Families benefit from accessible and supportive learning environments at every level.

Public Schools
Name:
Iola High School
Street:
300 E Jackson Ave
Phone:
620-365-4715
Students:
380
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.6
Name:
Jefferson Elementary School
Street:
300 S Jefferson Ave
Phone:
620-365-4820
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8

Colleges
Name:
Allen Community College
City:
Iola
State:
KS
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,400
Healthcare
Iola is served by Allen County Regional Hospital, providing general and emergency care to residents. The city has a solid healthcare infrastructure, with nearly 90% of the population insured and close to two physicians per 1,000 residents. Access to essential medical services is reliable and convenient for the community.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Allen County Regional Hospital
Address:
3066 N Kentucky St, Iola, KS 66749
Phone:
(620) 365-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.4%
Health Care Index:
78.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Iola, KS?
Iola's housing market is highly accessible, with a median home price of $72,400 and a homeownership rate of 61.5%. Rental options are available, with average rates for a two-bedroom apartment at $670 and a vacancy rate that allows for some flexibility. The area experiences steady, if modest, home appreciation and low foreclosure rates.
Median Home Price:
$72,400
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$670
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents can access driver and vehicle services at the local Kansas Department of Revenue – Division of Vehicles office on North Washington Avenue in Iola. The DMV offers standard licensing and registration services, with helpful staff and convenient local access. For more information or online services, residents can visit the state DMV website.
State:
Kansas
Department:
Kansas Department of Revenue – Division of Vehicles
Address:
1 N. Washington Ave, Suite B, Iola, KS 66749
Phone:
(620) 365-1420
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.