Iowa / County

Moving to Mason City, IA

Thinking of making a move to Mason City, 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 Mason City, IA

Considering a move to Mason City, IA? This welcoming community of 27,338 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $140,500 and average rents near $830. Commute times average 13 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (60% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Mason City's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Mason City, IA

Mason City has a population of 27,338 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 43 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 92% White, 2% Black, and 1% Asian residents, and over 5% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
27,338
Density
1,200 per sq mi
Median Age
43.2
Gender Ratio
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
4.7%

Ethnic Composition

White
91.5%
Black
2.1%
Asian
1.2%
Others
5.2%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Mason City, IA?

The cost of living in Mason City is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 84.5. Median home values are around $140,500 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $830. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$140,500
Gross Rent
$830
Monthly Electricity Charges
$105
Auto Insurance
$890
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,140
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$420
State Taxes
Low: 4.4%| High: 8.53%
Cost Of Living Index
84.5
Grocery
93.4
Housing
62.0
Utilities
99.8
Transportation
95.2
Health Care
98.5
Miscellaneous
92.3

Crime

Is Mason City, IA a safe place to live?

Mason City is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 217 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 46. 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
217
Property Crimes Per 100k
2,170
Crime Index
2,387
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 460
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 46

Weather

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

Mason City experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 83°F and cold winters dipping to 9°F. The area receives about 34 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 60% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
9°F
Max
28°F

Summer

Min
59°F
Max
83°F

Spring

Min
35°F
Max
62°F

Fall

Min
39°F
Max
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches
33.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
60%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $56,600 and a low poverty rate of 12.6%. Over 92% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 24% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 13 minutes, and almost 1% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$32,400
Household Income
$56,600
Family Income
$75,800
Per Capita Income
$31,200
Income Male
$41,300
Income Female
$32,900
Poverty Rate
12.6%
Non English Speakers
4.7%
Rent
$830
Unemployment Rate
3.6%
Public Transport Usage
0.7%
Commute Time
13.2 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
92.1%
Bachelors or More
23.5%

Education

How are the schools in Mason City, IA?

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

Public Schools

Name
Mason City High School
Street
1700 4th St SE
Phone
641-421-4525
Students
1,100
Student Teacher Ratio
14.7
Name
John Adams Middle School
Street
29 S Illinois Ave
Phone
641-421-4420
Students
700
Student Teacher Ratio
13.9

Private Schools

Name
Newman Catholic School
Street
2445 19th St SW
Phone
641-423-6638
Students
400

Colleges

Name
North Iowa Area Community College
City
Mason City
State
IA
Distance
5 miles
Students
2,800

Healthcare

Mason City residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 1.9 per 1,000 people and 93.9% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center
Address
1000 4th St SW, Mason City, IA 50401
Phone
(641) 428-7000
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage
93.9%
Health Care Index
72.1

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Mason City, IA?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $140,500 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 64%. The market has seen a 3.2% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 7.2%. Mason City offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$140,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$830
Owner Occupied Rate
63.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
3.2%
New Construction Rate
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate
0.3%

DMV Information

Residents of Mason City handle vehicle services through the Iowa Department of Transportation, conveniently located in Ames. 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
1300 S. Grand Avenue, Ames, IA 50010
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 Mason City, IA

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

Before moving to Mason City, review the core fields on this page: population 27,338, median home value $140,500, average rent for 2 bedroom $830, commute time 13.2 minutes, and sunny days percentage 60%.

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