Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Meroa, IA
Considering a move to Meroa, IA? This peaceful rural community of about 85 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $130,000 and average rents at $650. Crime rates are low, and commutes average just 22 minutes—perfect for those seeking tranquility and a short drive to nearby amenities. Local schools offer small class sizes, and the area enjoys pleasant Midwest summers with 55% sunny days. Meroa is a great choice if you value quiet country life and budget-friendly homes.
Demographics - Meroa, IA
Meroa, Iowa is a close-knit rural community with a population of just 85 people, featuring a median age of 44 and a predominantly White demographic. Residents enjoy a low-density, peaceful environment, and the area has a slightly higher number of males than females. Only 2% of the population speak a language other than English at home, emphasizing its small-town atmosphere.
Population:
85
Density:
30 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.1
Gender Ratio:
104 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
96.5%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
2.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Meroa, IA?
Living in Meroa is highly affordable, with a median home value of $130,000 and average rent around $650, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious movers. Overall cost of living is well below the national average, and expenses like utilities and groceries remain manageable. Residents also benefit from low property taxes and reasonable monthly costs, making it easy to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$130,000
Gross Rent:
$650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,000
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,025
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$390
State Taxes:
Low:
0.33%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.2
Grocery:
96.5
Housing:
68.1
Utilities:
95.0
Transportation:
84.2
Health Care:
98.0
Miscellaneous:
92.0
Crime
Is Meroa, IA a safe place to live?
Meroa is considered a safe place to live, with a very low violent crime rate of 130 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime rate well below larger cities. The chance of experiencing violent crime is just 1 in 770, offering residents peace of mind. Families and retirees can feel secure in this quiet rural environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
130
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,050
Crime Index:
1,180
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 770
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in Meroa, IA year-round?
Meroa experiences classic Midwest weather with cold winters, where temperatures can dip to 7°F, and warm, pleasant summers reaching up to 83°F. The area enjoys about 55% sunny days annually and receives moderate rainfall, supporting a lush landscape. Seasonal changes are distinct, giving residents a full range of weather throughout the year.
Winter
Min:
7°F
Max:
29°F
Spring
Min:
37°F
Max:
64°F
Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
37°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
34.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
55%
Neighbors
The typical household in Meroa earns about $61,200 per year, with a low unemployment rate of 2.8% and a poverty rate of just over 8%. Most residents commute an average of 22 minutes by car, as public transit is not used locally. The community is well-educated, with over 91% holding a high school diploma or higher, and nearly a quarter having a bachelor's degree.
Median Income:
$36,000
Household Income:
$61,200
Family Income:
$71,000
Per Capita Income:
$31,500
Income Male:
$42,000
Income Female:
$33,000
Poverty Rate:
8.2%
Non English Speakers:
2.0%
Rent:
$650
Unemployment Rate:
2.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0%
Commute Time:
22.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.5%
Bachelors or More:
22.0%
Education
How are the schools in Meroa, IA?
Families in Meroa benefit from access to nearby Osage public schools, known for small class sizes and individualized attention. Private education is also available, and North Iowa Area Community College in Mason City offers higher education opportunities just 26 miles away. The community values education, with a high rate of high school graduation among residents.
Public Schools
Name:
Osage High School
Street:
820 Sawyer Dr
Phone:
641-732-3102
Students:
340
Student Teacher Ratio:
13:1
Name:
Osage Middle School
Street:
820 Sawyer Dr
Phone:
641-732-3127
Students:
220
Student Teacher Ratio:
13:1
Private Schools
Name:
Sacred Heart School
Street:
1200 Grand Ave, Osage, IA 50461
Phone:
641-732-4163
Students:
110
Colleges
Name:
North Iowa Area Community College
City:
Mason City
State:
IA
Distance:
26 miles
Students:
2,800
Healthcare
Residents have access to quality healthcare services, with the Mitchell County Regional Health Center nearby offering general and emergency care. Health insurance coverage is high at 94.5%, and there are 1.2 physicians per 1,000 residents, ensuring accessible medical support. The healthcare environment is reliable, meeting the needs of the small community.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Mitchell County Regional Health Center
Address:
616 N 8th St, Osage, IA 50461
Phone:
(641) 732-6000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.5%
Health Care Index:
68.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Meroa, IA?
Meroa's housing market is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $130,000 and high owner occupancy at 88%. Rental options are available with an average two-bedroom rent of $650 and a low vacancy rate. The community has seen a healthy 4.7% home appreciation over the past year, making homeownership an appealing option.
Median Home Price:
$130,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$650
Owner Occupied Rate:
88.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Meroa residents are served by the Iowa Department of Transportation, with the nearest major office located in Ankeny. Services like driver licensing and vehicle registration are easily accessible either online or by visiting this regional center. The DMV provides all standard services for Iowa drivers, ensuring convenience for local residents.
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.