Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Rathbun, IA
Considering a move to Rathbun, IA? This small town of 41 residents offers a low cost of living—median home prices are just $70,000 and rents average $700. With an average commute time of 22.5 minutes and a low violent crime rate of 120 per 100K, Rathbun is peaceful but close to essential amenities in Centerville. Enjoy a strong sense of community, affordable living, and classic Midwestern seasons with 59% sunny days each year. Schools are served by nearby Centerville, and the area’s relaxed pace is ideal for those seeking rural charm.
Demographics - Rathbun, IA
Demographics - Rathbun, IA
Rathbun is a small, close-knit community of just 41 residents with a median age of nearly 53, reflecting a mature population. The town is predominantly White, with over 97% of residents identifying as such, and has a slightly higher proportion of males to females. Most people here speak English at home, and the modest population density gives Rathbun a quiet, rural character.
Population:
41
Density:
113 per sq mi
Median Age:
52.8
Gender Ratio:
110 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.3%

Ethnic Composition
White:
97.5%
Black:
0.0%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
2.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Rathbun, IA?
Living in Rathbun is highly affordable, with median home values around $70,000 and average rents of $700 per month. The cost of living index is notably lower than the national average, making it budget-friendly for both homeowners and renters. Utilities, groceries, and transportation also remain reasonably priced, helping residents stretch their dollars further.
Median House Value:
$70,000
Gross Rent:
$700
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,030
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$900
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
0.33%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
79.5
Grocery:
94.2
Housing:
46.0
Utilities:
92.3
Transportation:
89.1
Health Care:
98.6
Miscellaneous:
78.4
Crime
Is Rathbun, IA a safe place to live?
Rathbun enjoys a peaceful environment with a low violent crime rate of 120 per 100,000 people, making it a safe option for families and individuals. The property crime rate is also modest, and residents have a low chance of encountering crime compared to larger cities. This contributes to the town's reputation as a secure and tranquil place to live.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
120
Property Crimes Per 100k:
950
Crime Index:
1,070
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 830
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 105
Weather
What is the weather like in Rathbun, IA year-round?
Rathbun experiences classic Midwestern seasons, with chilly winters averaging 14°F to 33°F and warm summers reaching up to 86°F. The area receives about 37.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunny skies 59% of the year. These weather patterns provide four distinct seasons for residents to enjoy outdoor activities year-round.

Winter
Min:
14°F
Max:
33°F

Spring
Min:
37°F
Max:
67°F

Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
86°F

Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
37.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
59%
Neighbors
The median household income in Rathbun is $42,000, and about 19.5% of residents live below the poverty line, reflecting a modest economic landscape. Most neighbors commute less than 23 minutes to work, and public transit usage is nonexistent, emphasizing a reliance on personal vehicles. Educational attainment is solid, with over 80% of adults holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$25,400
Household Income:
$42,000
Family Income:
$48,500
Per Capita Income:
$22,300
Income Male:
$27,500
Income Female:
$23,100
Poverty Rate:
19.5%
Non English Speakers:
2.3%
Rent:
$700
Unemployment Rate:
4.0%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
22.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
82.0%
Bachelors or More:
13.2%
Education
How are the schools in Rathbun, IA?
Rathbun students typically attend schools in nearby Centerville, such as Centerville High School and Lakeview Elementary, both offering manageable class sizes. For higher education, Indian Hills Community College is conveniently located just 7 miles away, providing additional learning opportunities. The area supports a solid foundation in public education with accessible options for all age groups.

Public Schools
Name:
Centerville High School
Street:
1015 S 18th St
Phone:
641-856-0813
Students:
460
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.3
Name:
Lakeview Elementary School
Street:
222 N 18th St
Phone:
641-856-0601
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.8

Colleges
Name:
Indian Hills Community College
City:
Centerville
State:
IA
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
3,600
Healthcare
Healthcare access is reliable in Rathbun, with Centerville Medical Center offering general and emergency services nearby. The town has a physician availability of 1.6 per 1,000 residents, and over 91% of people have health insurance coverage. These resources ensure that basic medical needs are met within a short drive.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Centerville Medical Center
Address:
19999 St. Joseph Dr, Centerville, IA 52544
Phone:
(641) 437-4111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.4%
Health Care Index:
71.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Rathbun, IA?
Rathbun's housing market is characterized by affordability, with a median home price of $70,000 and most homes being owner-occupied. Rental options are available, with a 10% vacancy rate and average rents for a two-bedroom at $700. The market remains stable, with steady home appreciation and low foreclosure rates.
Median Home Price:
$70,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$700
Owner Occupied Rate:
82.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents of Rathbun access DMV services through the Iowa Department of Transportation, located in Ankeny. Essential tasks like licensing, registration, and vehicle services are managed by this state agency, with information available on the official website or by phone. The office is well-equipped to handle routine motor vehicle needs for Rathbun locals.
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.