Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Larchwood, IA
Considering a move to Larchwood, IA? With a small-town population of around 926, Larchwood offers affordable living with median home prices near $162,000 and average rents of $700. The area boasts a low crime rate (just 75 violent crimes per 100K), short 19-minute commutes, and excellent public schools. Residents enjoy strong community ties, a high rate of homeownership, and four distinct seasons with 62% sunny days each year. Explore Larchwood's relaxed pace, welcoming neighborhoods, and practical cost of living to see if it's the right fit for you.
Demographics - Larchwood, IA
Demographics - Larchwood, IA
Larchwood is a close-knit community of about 926 residents, with a balanced gender ratio and a median age of 36.8. The population is predominantly White, and the area maintains a small-town feel with high population density for its size. A low percentage of non-English speakers makes it easy for newcomers to integrate.
Population:
926
Density:
950 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.8
Gender Ratio:
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
97.8%
Black:
0.3%
Asian:
0.2%
Others:
1.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Larchwood, IA?
Living in Larchwood is budget-friendly, with a cost of living index well below the national average and median home values around $162,000. Renters enjoy average monthly rents of $700, and utilities and daily expenses remain affordable. State taxes are moderate, making it an attractive choice for those seeking value.
Median House Value:
$162,000
Gross Rent:
$700
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$980
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$395
State Taxes:
Low:
0.33%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
86.2
Grocery:
92.4
Housing:
70.8
Utilities:
99.1
Transportation:
85.5
Health Care:
97.7
Miscellaneous:
93.0
Crime
Is Larchwood, IA a safe place to live?
Larchwood offers a safe environment, reporting only 75 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a low risk of property crime. Residents enjoy peace of mind in a community where the chance of becoming a crime victim is significantly lower than in many areas. This safety contributes to the town's family-friendly reputation.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
75
Property Crimes Per 100k:
620
Crime Index:
695
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,330
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 161
Weather
What is the weather like in Larchwood, IA year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons in Larchwood, with cold winters, warm summers, and a pleasant spring and fall. The area receives about 28.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys 62% sunny days, providing a balanced climate for outdoor activities. Weather conditions make it easy to appreciate the distinct beauty of each season.

Winter
Min:
8°F
Max:
29°F

Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
65°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
85°F

Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
28.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Larchwood's neighborhoods are characterized by strong community ties, with a median household income of $73,800 and a low poverty rate of 5.9%. Most adults are high school graduates, and the unemployment rate is just 2.8%. Residents benefit from short commutes and a high rate of homeownership.
Median Income:
$45,000
Household Income:
$73,800
Family Income:
$81,500
Per Capita Income:
$32,500
Income Male:
$42,500
Income Female:
$36,000
Poverty Rate:
5.9%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$700
Unemployment Rate:
2.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
19.1 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
94.3%
Bachelors or More:
26.5%
Education
How are the schools in Larchwood, IA?
Larchwood is served by reputable public schools such as West Lyon Elementary and High School, known for favorable student-teacher ratios and strong community involvement. For higher education, Northwestern College is located just 32 miles away in Orange City. The town's educational opportunities support families and lifelong learners.

Public Schools
Name:
West Lyon Elementary School
Street:
1787 182nd St
Phone:
712-753-4911
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Name:
West Lyon High School
Street:
1787 182nd St
Phone:
712-753-4911
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7

Colleges
Name:
Northwestern College
City:
Orange City
State:
IA
Distance:
32 miles
Students:
1,500
Healthcare
Healthcare in Larchwood is supported by nearby facilities like Sanford Rock Rapids Medical Center, offering general and emergency services. The area has a solid rate of health insurance coverage at nearly 94%, and physician availability is on par with many small towns. Residents can access essential medical care within a short drive.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Sanford Rock Rapids Medical Center
Address:
703 S Union St, Rock Rapids, IA 51246
Phone:
(712) 472-2591
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.8%
Health Care Index:
71.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Larchwood, IA?
Larchwood's housing market is stable, with a median home price of $162,000 and owner-occupancy at over 80%. The rental market is healthy, with average two-bedroom rents around $720 and low vacancy and foreclosure rates. Modest home appreciation indicates a reliable investment for buyers.
Median Home Price:
$162,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$720
Owner Occupied Rate:
80.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Motor vehicle services for Larchwood are provided by the Iowa Department of Transportation, conveniently located in nearby Rock Rapids. Residents can access licensing and registration assistance online or by phone, ensuring efficient and accessible DMV support for the area.
State:
Iowa
Department:
Iowa Department of Transportation
Address:
6310 Hwy 9, Rock Rapids, IA 51246
Phone:
1-800-532-1121
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.