Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Nora Springs, IA
Considering a move to Nora Springs, IA? This friendly community of 1,350 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $119,000 and average rents at $670. Residents enjoy a low crime rate, short average commutes (21 minutes), and a welcoming, small-town feel. Education is supported by a well-rated local elementary school, and nearby Mason City provides additional amenities and healthcare. With 60% sunny days and a relaxed pace, Nora Springs is ideal for those seeking comfort and value in northern Iowa.
Demographics - Nora Springs, IA
Demographics - Nora Springs, IA
Nora Springs is a small, close-knit community of about 1,350 residents, with a median age of 44.1 years and a predominantly White population. The city has a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, creating a welcoming and familiar atmosphere for newcomers.
Population:
1,350
Density:
420 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.1
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
96.2%
Black:
0.3%
Asian:
0.4%
Others:
3.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Nora Springs, IA?
Living in Nora Springs is notably affordable, with a cost of living index well below the national average and median home values around $119,000. Residents also benefit from low average rents and reasonable utility costs, making the city an excellent choice for those seeking value in northern Iowa.
Median House Value:
$119,000
Gross Rent:
$670
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$980
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$380
State Taxes:
Low:
0.33%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
79.3
Grocery:
95.8
Housing:
54.7
Utilities:
97.6
Transportation:
87.2
Health Care:
93.2
Miscellaneous:
91.1
Crime
Is Nora Springs, IA a safe place to live?
Nora Springs enjoys a low crime rate, with violent crime being particularly rare and property crime risks lower than many urban areas. Residents have a strong sense of safety, with chances of experiencing violent crime at just 1 in 770.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
130
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,200
Crime Index:
1,330
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 770
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 83
Weather
What is the weather like in Nora Springs, IA year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with cold winters and warm summers; average winter lows are around 7°F and summer highs reach up to 83°F. The city receives about 33 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunny skies 60% of the year, contributing to a pleasant, balanced climate.

Winter
Min:
7°F
Max:
27°F

Spring
Min:
37°F
Max:
61°F

Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
83°F

Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
64°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
33.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
The community features moderate household incomes and a low poverty rate, with over 90% of adults having completed high school. Most residents commute about 21 minutes to work, and unemployment remains low, reflecting a stable and supportive local environment.
Median Income:
$35,500
Household Income:
$57,800
Family Income:
$65,900
Per Capita Income:
$28,200
Income Male:
$38,000
Income Female:
$30,600
Poverty Rate:
7.4%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$670
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
21.3 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
91.6%
Bachelors or More:
18.1%
Education
How are the schools in Nora Springs, IA?
Education in Nora Springs is anchored by a well-regarded elementary school with small class sizes, while higher education opportunities are available nearby at North Iowa Area Community College. Families appreciate the supportive educational environment and access to additional resources in the surrounding area.

Public Schools
Name:
Nora Springs Elementary School
Street:
509 N. Iowa Ave
Phone:
641-749-5301
Students:
200
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5

Colleges
Name:
North Iowa Area Community College
City:
Mason City
State:
IA
Distance:
13 miles
Students:
2,900
Healthcare
Nora Springs offers access to quality healthcare, with a major hospital and a high rate of health insurance coverage among residents. The area maintains a solid physician-to-resident ratio, ensuring medical services are accessible and reliable.

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
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.8%
Health Care Index:
82.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Nora Springs, IA?
The housing market in Nora Springs is stable and affordable, with a median home price around $119,000 and most homes owner-occupied. Rental options are available at attractive rates, and the area sees modest home appreciation and low foreclosure rates.
Median Home Price:
$119,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$670
Owner Occupied Rate:
80.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the Iowa Department of Transportation's Motor Vehicle Division, conveniently accessible in nearby Ankeny. The DMV provides all standard services and resources for new and existing drivers in Iowa.
State:
Iowa
Department:
Iowa Department of Transportation - Motor Vehicle Division
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.