Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Kalona, IA
Thinking of moving to Kalona, IA? This charming community of 2,629 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $192,000 and average rents of $870. Kalona boasts a low violent crime rate (70 per 100K), short average commutes (19 minutes), and a close-knit, friendly atmosphere. Enjoy 60% sunny days each year, access to quality local schools, and a relaxed pace of life—perfect for those seeking small-town charm with easy access to nearby cities.
Demographics - Kalona, IA
Demographics - Kalona, IA
Kalona is a small, close-knit city of 2,629 residents with a median age of 40.6 years. The community is predominantly White, but includes a modest mix of other backgrounds and 6.5% non-English speakers, reflecting a welcoming and family-oriented atmosphere.
Population:
2,629
Density:
1,050 per sq mi
Median Age:
40.6
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
95.3%
Black:
0.2%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
3.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Kalona, IA?
Living in Kalona is notably affordable, with a cost of living index of 87.6—well below the national average. Median home values stand at $192,000 and average rents at $870, making it an attractive option for both homeowners and renters.
Median House Value:
$192,000
Gross Rent:
$870
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,170
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$430
State Taxes:
Low:
0.33%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
87.6
Grocery:
92.5
Housing:
74.8
Utilities:
96.7
Transportation:
89.3
Health Care:
91.2
Miscellaneous:
90.5
Crime
Is Kalona, IA a safe place to live?
Kalona enjoys a low crime environment, with just 70 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 680 per 100,000. Residents benefit from a strong sense of safety and a low chance of experiencing crime compared to many other communities.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
70
Property Crimes Per 100k:
680
Crime Index:
750
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,430
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 147
Weather
What is the weather like in Kalona, IA year-round?
Kalona experiences a classic Midwestern climate with cold winters averaging lows of 14°F, warm summers reaching 85°F, and about 36.5 inches of rainfall annually. With 60% sunny days, residents can enjoy a balanced mix of seasons and plenty of sunshine throughout the year.

Winter
Min:
14°F
Max:
32°F

Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
85°F

Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
64°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
The typical household in Kalona earns about $61,600 and the poverty rate is a low 7.3%. Most adults have completed high school, commute times average under 20 minutes, and the community is marked by stability and a low unemployment rate of 3.1%.
Median Income:
$31,500
Household Income:
$61,600
Family Income:
$75,400
Per Capita Income:
$29,300
Income Male:
$40,500
Income Female:
$28,400
Poverty Rate:
7.3%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$870
Unemployment Rate:
3.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
19.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
91.1%
Bachelors or More:
23.7%
Education
How are the schools in Kalona, IA?
Kalona offers quality education through public and private schools, with favorable student-teacher ratios and supportive community involvement. For higher education, the city is within easy driving distance to Kirkwood Community College and the University of Iowa, providing excellent opportunities for continued learning.

Public Schools
Name:
Mid-Prairie High School
Street:
1634 Hwy 22 E
Phone:
319-656-3779
Students:
330
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7
Name:
Mid-Prairie Middle School
Street:
713 F Avenue
Phone:
319-656-2241
Students:
250
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.2

Private Schools
Name:
Pathway Christian School
Street:
5764 Hwy 1 SW
Phone:
319-656-5443
Students:
85

Colleges
Name:
Kirkwood Community College
City:
Cedar Rapids
State:
IA
Distance:
27 miles
Students:
13,500
Name:
University of Iowa
City:
Iowa City
State:
IA
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
30,000
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Kalona is strong, featuring local clinics and nearby hospitals, with 93.8% of residents carrying health insurance. There are 1.6 physicians per 1,000 people, ensuring quality primary and emergency care within easy reach.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Mercy Iowa City Kalona Clinic
Address:
520 B Avenue, Kalona, IA 52247
Phone:
(319) 656-2070
Type:
Primary Care
Emergency Services:
No
Name:
Washington County Hospital and Clinics
Address:
400 E Polk St, Washington, IA 52353
Phone:
(319) 653-5481
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.8%
Health Care Index:
76.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Kalona, IA?
Kalona’s housing market is stable and accessible, with a median home price of $192,000 and a 66.9% owner-occupancy rate. Home values are appreciating at 4.7% annually, making it a solid choice for buyers seeking long-term value and affordability.
Median Home Price:
$192,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$870
Owner Occupied Rate:
66.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents handle driver and vehicle services through the Iowa Department of Transportation, located in Ankeny. Information and services are easily accessible online or by phone, making DMV tasks straightforward and convenient.
State:
Iowa
Department:
Iowa Department of Transportation
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.