Iowa / Wapello County

Moving to Ottumwa, IA

Thinking of making a move to Ottumwa, 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 Ottumwa, IA

Considering a move to Ottumwa, IA? This welcoming community of 24,293 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $93,400 and average rents near $750. Commute times average 15 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 Ottumwa's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Ottumwa, IA

Ottumwa has a population of 24,293 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 39 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 82% White, 2% Black, and 1% Asian residents, and over 8% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
24,293
Density
1,350 per sq mi
Median Age
38.9
Gender Ratio
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
8.3%

Ethnic Composition

White
81.8%
Black
2.4%
Asian
1.0%
Others
14.8%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Ottumwa, IA?

The cost of living in Ottumwa is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 78.1. Median home values are around $93,400 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $750. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$93,400
Gross Rent
$750
Monthly Electricity Charges
$110
Auto Insurance
$1,020
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$410
State Taxes
Low: 0.33%| High: 8.53%
Cost Of Living Index
78.1
Grocery
92.7
Housing
61.4
Utilities
97.2
Transportation
89.5
Health Care
98.0
Miscellaneous
93.0

Crime

Is Ottumwa, IA a safe place to live?

Ottumwa is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 282 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 43. 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
282
Property Crimes Per 100k
2,335
Crime Index
2,617
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 355
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 43

Weather

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

Ottumwa experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 86°F and cold winters dipping to 15°F. The area receives about 38 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
15°F
Max
34°F

Summer

Min
62°F
Max
86°F

Spring

Min
42°F
Max
65°F

Fall

Min
44°F
Max
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches
37.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
60%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $48,964 and a low poverty rate of 18.7%. Over 86% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 15% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 15 minutes, and almost 1% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$28,500
Household Income
$48,964
Family Income
$61,200
Per Capita Income
$25,100
Income Male
$44,600
Income Female
$33,200
Poverty Rate
18.7%
Non English Speakers
8.3%
Rent
$750
Unemployment Rate
3.9%
Public Transport Usage
0.7%
Commute Time
15.1 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
85.7%
Bachelors or More
15.2%

Education

How are the schools in Ottumwa, IA?

Ottumwa offers quality education options, with public schools like Ottumwa High School and Evans Middle School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Indian Hills Community College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Ottumwa High School
Street
501 E 2nd St
Phone
641-683-4444
Students
1,350
Student Teacher Ratio
17.5
Name
Evans Middle School
Street
812 Chester Ave
Phone
641-684-6511
Students
950
Student Teacher Ratio
16.8

Private Schools

Name
Seton Catholic School
Street
117 N. Moore St
Phone
641-682-8826
Students
210

Colleges

Name
Indian Hills Community College
City
Ottumwa
State
IA
Distance
0 miles
Students
3,600

Healthcare

Ottumwa residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Ottumwa Regional Health Center nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 1.7 per 1,000 people and 91.0% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Ottumwa Regional Health Center
Address
1001 Pennsylvania Ave, Ottumwa, IA 52501
Phone
(641) 684-2300
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage
91.0%
Health Care Index
76.3

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Ottumwa, IA?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $93,400 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 60%. The market has seen a 3.9% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 7.2%. Ottumwa offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$93,400
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$750
Owner Occupied Rate
59.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
3.9%
New Construction Rate
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate
0.7%

DMV Information

Residents of Ottumwa handle vehicle services through the Iowa Department of Transportation, conveniently located in Ottumwa. 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
410 W. 2nd Ave., Ottumwa, IA 52501
Phone
641-682-7515

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 Ottumwa, IA

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

Before moving to Ottumwa, review the core fields on this page: population 24,293, median home value $93,400, average rent for 2 bedroom $750, commute time 15.1 minutes, and sunny days percentage 60%.

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