Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Rock Rapids, IA
Considering a move to Rock Rapids, IA? With a close-knit population of 2,611 and a low cost of living, this friendly city offers affordable median home prices around $184,000 and rents averaging $725. Residents enjoy short 13-minute commutes, low crime rates, and excellent public schools with high graduation rates. Rock Rapids boasts a comfortable climate with 63% sunny days and easy access to local healthcare, making it an inviting choice for families and individuals seeking a peaceful, small-town lifestyle.
Demographics - Rock Rapids, IA
Demographics - Rock Rapids, IA
Rock Rapids is a small, close-knit city of about 2,600 people, with a median age of 42 and a population that is predominantly White. The community features a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, making it a welcoming environment for families and newcomers.
Population:
2,611
Density:
1,150 per sq mi
Median Age:
42.3
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.1%

Ethnic Composition
White:
96.5%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
2.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Rock Rapids, IA?
Rock Rapids stands out for its affordable cost of living, with median home values around $184,000 and average rents at $725. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordability without sacrificing quality of life.
Median House Value:
$184,000
Gross Rent:
$725
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,120
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$415
State Taxes:
Low:
4.40%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
85.2
Grocery:
92.8
Housing:
78.5
Utilities:
90.4
Transportation:
83.1
Health Care:
91.6
Miscellaneous:
86.2
Crime
Is Rock Rapids, IA a safe place to live?
The city enjoys a low crime rate, with violent crime at just 98 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime risk that remains lower than many U.S. cities. Residents can feel secure thanks to the community’s safe, family-friendly atmosphere.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
98
Property Crimes Per 100k:
715
Crime Index:
813
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,020
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 140
Weather
What is the weather like in Rock Rapids, IA year-round?
Rock Rapids experiences four distinct seasons, featuring cold winters with lows around 7°F and warm summers reaching up to 83°F. With 63% sunny days and moderate annual rainfall, residents enjoy a pleasant Midwestern climate ideal for outdoor activities.

Winter
Min:
7°F
Max:
27°F

Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
83°F

Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
64°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
28.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Residents of Rock Rapids benefit from a strong sense of community, with a median household income of $63,210 and a low unemployment rate of 2.3%. The average commute is just 13 minutes, and nearly 95% of adults have completed high school or higher, reflecting a well-educated and stable population.
Median Income:
$38,400
Household Income:
$63,210
Family Income:
$74,800
Per Capita Income:
$32,500
Income Male:
$44,100
Income Female:
$31,400
Poverty Rate:
8.1%
Non English Speakers:
3.1%
Rent:
$725
Unemployment Rate:
2.3%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
13.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
94.8%
Bachelors or More:
24.1%
Education
How are the schools in Rock Rapids, IA?
Families in Rock Rapids have access to strong public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios and high graduation rates. While there are no colleges within the city itself, reputable institutions like Northwestern College and Dordt University are within a short drive, supporting continued education opportunities.

Public Schools
Name:
Central Lyon Elementary School
Street:
1010 S Greene St
Phone:
712-472-2664
Students:
440
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.1
Name:
Central Lyon High School
Street:
1010 S Greene St
Phone:
712-472-4051
Students:
270
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7

Colleges
Name:
Northwestern College
City:
Orange City
State:
IA
Distance:
36 miles
Students:
1,500
Name:
Dordt University
City:
Sioux Center
State:
IA
Distance:
43 miles
Students:
1,800
Healthcare
Quality healthcare is readily available, anchored by the Sanford Rock Rapids Medical Center that provides emergency services and general care. Most residents are insured, and the city’s physician-to-population ratio helps ensure accessible medical support for families and individuals.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Sanford Rock Rapids Medical Center
Address:
702 8th Ave E, Rock Rapids, IA 51246
Phone:
(712) 472-2591
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.6%
Health Care Index:
72.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Rock Rapids, IA?
With a median home price of $184,000 and over 80% owner occupancy, Rock Rapids offers a stable and affordable housing market. Home values have appreciated modestly in the past year, and rental options remain accessible for newcomers.
Median Home Price:
$184,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$725
Owner Occupied Rate:
80.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Rock Rapids residents are served by the Iowa Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicle Division, with the nearest office located in Le Mars. Essential DMV services are easily accessible both online and in person for all vehicle and licensing needs.
State:
Iowa
Department:
Iowa Department of Transportation - Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
1420 Highway 60 S., Le Mars, IA 51031
Phone:
1-515-244-8725
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.