What Should I Know Before Moving to Lost Island Lake?

Check the cost of living, housing, traffic, and public transit in Lost Island Lake. Each neighborhood has its own vibe, so pick one that fits your lifestyle. Be prepared for Lost Island Lake climate and weather.

How Much Do Movers Charge in Lost Island Lake?

Moving within Lost Island Lake usually costs between $300 and $1,500. Moving long distances can cost anywhere from $2,000 to more than $5,000. The price may go up if you need extra services like packing or storage. Fill out Movers.com quote form to compare the quotes easily.

What’s the Best Time of the Year to Move to Lost Island Lake?

While moves happen year-round, spring and fall are often more comfortable in Lost Island Lake. Booking outside of peak summer or winter seasons can save money and make scheduling easier.

Do Moving Companies in Lost Island Lake Offer Packing and Unpacking Services?

Yes! Majority of moving companies in Lost Island Lake offer full service moving, which means they will help you pack, unpack, and arrange your belongings.

When You Move from Lost Island Lake, How Far in Advance Should I Schedule My Move?

You should plan your move from Lost Island Lake at least 4 to 8 weeks in advance, especially if you're moving during the busy season (summer). You can get better availability, prices, and flexibility with your moving date if you book early. If you book at the last minute, you may have fewer choices or pay more.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Lost Island Lake, IA

Considering a move to Lost Island Lake, IA? This tranquil lakeside community of about 450 residents features affordable housing—with median home prices at $210,000 and rents around $900—plus a low cost of living index of 87. Crime is very low, and the area boasts short commute times averaging 18.5 minutes. Enjoy peaceful rural living, access to nearby schools, and plenty of sunny days, all set against the scenic beauty of one of Iowa's best-loved lakes.

Demographics - Lost Island Lake, IA

Lost Island Lake is a small and close-knit community of about 450 residents, with a notably high median age of 54, reflecting its appeal to retirees and those seeking a quiet lifestyle. The area is predominantly White (97.5%), and the population density is low at just 45 people per square mile, offering a spacious and tranquil environment.

Population:

450

Density:

45 per sq mi

Median Age:

Gender Ratio:

103 males per 100 females

Non-English Speakers Percentage:

2.5%

Ethnic Composition

White:

97.5%

Black:

0.5%

Asian:

0.3%

Others:

1.7%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Lost Island Lake, IA?

Living in Lost Island Lake is affordable, with a median home value of $210,000 and an overall cost of living index well below the national average. Residents benefit from reasonable expenses on housing, groceries, and utilities, making it an attractive option for those seeking value in a scenic setting.

Median House Value:

$210,000

Gross Rent:

$900

Monthly Electricity Charges:

$105

Auto Insurance:

$980

House Owner Cost With Mortgage:

$1,150

House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:

$420

State Taxes:

Low:

0.33%

High:

8.53%

Cost Of Living Index:

87.0

Grocery:

93.0

Housing:

80.0

Utilities:

94.0

Transportation:

82.0

Health Care:

88.0

Miscellaneous:

90.0

Crime

Is Lost Island Lake, IA a safe place to live?

Lost Island Lake boasts a low crime rate, with only 75 violent crimes per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 700 per 100,000, making it a safe choice for families and retirees alike. The chances of encountering violent crime are very low, providing peace of mind for residents.

Violent Crimes Per 100k:

Property Crimes Per 100k:

700

Crime Index:

775

Chance Of Violent Crime:

1 in 1,333

Chance Of Property Crime:

1 in 143

Weather

What is the weather like in Lost Island Lake, IA year-round?

Residents experience all four seasons, with warm summers averaging highs of 84°F and cold winters with lows near 9°F. The area enjoys about 58% sunny days each year and moderate rainfall, making it ideal for those who appreciate a balance of weather patterns.

Winter

Min:

9°F

Max:

29°F

Spring

Min:

37°F

Max:

61°F

Summer

Min:

60°F

Max:

84°F

Fall

Min:

38°F

Max:

63°F

Average Rainfall Inches:

30.5 inches

Sunny Days Percentage:

58%

Neighbors

The community features a median household income of $55,000 and a relatively low unemployment rate of 3.4%. Most residents have at least a high school education, and the typical commute is a short 18.5 minutes, underscoring the small-town ease of daily life.

Median Income:

$37,000

Household Income:

$55,000

Family Income:

$62,000

Per Capita Income:

$32,000

Income Male:

$40,000

Income Female:

$32,000

Poverty Rate:

9.5%

Non English Speakers:

2.5%

Rent:

$900

Unemployment Rate:

3.4%

Public Transport Usage:

0.0%

Commute Time:

18.5 minutes

Education

High School or Higher:

93.1%

Bachelors or More:

23.0%

Education

How are the schools in Lost Island Lake, IA?

Families benefit from access to quality public schools with low student-teacher ratios, and higher education opportunities are close at hand with Iowa Lakes Community College just 22 miles away. The community’s strong educational attainment levels support a well-rounded and informed population.

Public Schools

Name:

Graettinger-Terril High School

Street:

205 South Lincoln, Graettinger, IA 51342

Phone:

712-859-3286

Students:

160

Student Teacher Ratio:

12.5

Name:

Ruthven-Ayrshire Elementary & High School

Street:

1505 Washington St, Ruthven, IA 51358

Phone:

712-837-5211

Students:

210

Student Teacher Ratio:

11.8

Colleges

Name:

Iowa Lakes Community College

City:

Estherville

State:

Distance:

22 miles

Students:

2,000

Healthcare

Access to healthcare is reliable, with the Palo Alto County Health System nearby and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 92%. The region offers a favorable healthcare index and a reasonable number of physicians per capita, ensuring residents’ medical needs are well supported.

Major Hospitals

Name:

Palo Alto County Health System

Address:

3201 1st Street, Emmetsburg, IA 50536

Phone:

(712) 852-5500

Type:

General & Surgical

Emergency Services:

Yes

Physicians Per 1000:

1.6

Health Insurance Coverage:

92.0%

Health Care Index:

77.8

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Lost Island Lake, IA?

Lost Island Lake’s housing market is stable, with a median home price of $210,000 and the vast majority of homes being owner-occupied. Home values have appreciated modestly in the past year, and vacancy as well as foreclosure rates remain low, reflecting a healthy and resilient market.

Median Home Price:

$210,000

Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:

$900

Owner Occupied Rate:

85.0%

Rental Vacancy Rate:

7.5%

Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):

4.1%

New Construction Rate:

0.7%

Foreclosure Rate:

0.2%

DMV Information

Residents can access DMV services through the Iowa Department of Transportation office in nearby Spirit Lake, ensuring convenient vehicle registration and licensing. Comprehensive information and resources are also available online through the state's official DMV website.

State:

Iowa

Department:

Iowa Department of Transportation

Address:

6310 Hwy 9, Spirit Lake, IA 51360

Phone:

515-244-8725

Website:

https://iowadot.gov/mvd

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.