Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Paton, IA
Considering a move to Paton, IA? This friendly small town of just 229 people offers affordable living with median home prices around $80,500 and average rents of $700. Residents enjoy a low violent crime rate, short 23.5-minute commutes, and a strong sense of community. While amenities are limited, Paton boasts a highly rated local public school and easy access to healthcare in nearby Jefferson. Experience quiet living, wide open spaces, and a sunny Iowa climate in Paton.
Demographics - Paton, IA
Paton is a small, close-knit community of 229 residents, predominantly White, with a median age of 46.2 years. The population is evenly split between males and females, and the area is known for its peaceful, low-density living. Non-English speakers make up a small proportion, contributing to the town’s welcoming, homogenous feel.
Population:
229
Density:
280 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.2
Gender Ratio:
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
95.7%
Black:
0.4%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
3.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Paton, IA?
Living in Paton is highly affordable, with a median home value around $80,500 and average rents at just $700. The cost of living index is well below the national average, making it a budget-friendly choice for families and retirees. Utilities and groceries are also reasonably priced, ensuring everyday expenses remain manageable.
Median House Value:
$80,500
Gross Rent:
$700
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$980
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$870
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
0.33%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.2
Grocery:
94.6
Housing:
60.0
Utilities:
97.5
Transportation:
85.0
Health Care:
98.3
Miscellaneous:
94.1
Crime
Is Paton, IA a safe place to live?
Paton enjoys a low crime environment, with violent crime rates far below national averages and property crime remaining relatively infrequent. Residents have a 1 in 588 chance of experiencing violent crime, contributing to a sense of safety and security. This makes Paton an appealing option for those prioritizing a peaceful lifestyle.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
170
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,200
Crime Index:
1,370
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 588
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 83
Weather
What is the weather like in Paton, IA year-round?
Paton experiences classic Midwest seasons, with cold winters averaging 10°F to 30°F, warm summers reaching up to 85°F, and moderate rainfall totaling about 33.8 inches annually. The town enjoys a sunny climate, with sunshine on roughly 62% of days. Residents can expect distinct, enjoyable changes throughout the year.

Winter
Min:
10°F
Max:
30°F

Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
65°F

Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
85°F

Fall
Min:
35°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
33.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
The community in Paton is financially stable, with a median household income of $55,000 and a poverty rate below 10%. Most adults are high school graduates, and the unemployment rate is low at 3.2%. Residents benefit from short commutes and a strong sense of local connection.
Median Income:
$35,500
Household Income:
$55,000
Family Income:
$70,000
Per Capita Income:
$30,200
Income Male:
$40,500
Income Female:
$32,000
Poverty Rate:
9.8%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$700
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
23.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
93.0%
Bachelors or More:
18.0%
Education
How are the schools in Paton, IA?
Paton is home to the Paton-Churdan Community School, which offers a low student-teacher ratio for personalized attention. While private school options are limited locally, higher education is accessible with colleges such as Iowa Central Community College and Iowa State University located within an hour’s drive. The area prioritizes education and lifelong learning.

Public Schools
Name:
Paton-Churdan Community School
Street:
606 Adrian St
Phone:
515-389-3111
Students:
225
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5

Colleges
Name:
Iowa Central Community College
City:
Fort Dodge
State:
IA
Distance:
38 miles
Students:
5,800
Name:
Iowa State University
City:
Ames
State:
IA
Distance:
55 miles
Students:
30,700
Healthcare
Paton residents have access to quality medical care, with Greene County Medical Center nearby in Jefferson offering emergency and general health services. Health insurance coverage is high at 94%, and there are 1.5 physicians per 1,000 people, ensuring timely care. Healthcare in the area is both accessible and reliable.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Greene County Medical Center
Address:
1000 W Lincolnway, Jefferson, IA 50129
Phone:
(515) 386-2114
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.0%
Health Care Index:
77.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Paton, IA?
The housing market in Paton is affordable, with a median home price of $80,500 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 82.5%. Rental options are available with average rents of $700, and the area has a low foreclosure rate. Home values have seen steady appreciation, making it a stable choice for buyers.
Median Home Price:
$80,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$700
Owner Occupied Rate:
82.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents of Paton are served by the Iowa Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicle Division, located in Ankeny. The DMV offers a full range of licensing and registration services, with additional information and resources available on their official website. Access to DMV services is straightforward for local drivers.
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.