Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Runnells, IA
Considering a move to Runnells, IA? This friendly small town of 457 offers affordable living with a median home price around $215,000 and average rent at $950. Residents enjoy low crime rates, a short average commute of 28 minutes, and highly rated local schools. With a high owner occupancy rate, plenty of sunny days, and close proximity to Des Moines' amenities and hospitals, Runnells is an ideal choice for those seeking relaxed rural charm with convenient city access.
Demographics - Runnells, IA
Demographics - Runnells, IA
Runnells is a small, close-knit community of 457 residents, with a median age of 38.7 and a nearly even gender balance. The population is predominantly White, with a small representation of other backgrounds, and most residents speak English at home. This rural town offers a peaceful atmosphere and a sense of familiarity among neighbors.
Population:
457
Density:
310 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.7
Gender Ratio:
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.4%
Ethnic Composition
White:
96.7%
Black:
0.9%
Asian:
0.4%
Others:
2.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Runnells, IA?
Runnells provides an affordable lifestyle, with a median house value of $215,000 and average rent at $950, both below national averages. The cost of living index is 89.1, making everyday expenses, including groceries and utilities, manageable for most households. State tax rates are moderate, contributing to the area's overall budget-friendly appeal.
Median House Value:
$215,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$119
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,235
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
4.4%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
89.1
Grocery:
96.0
Housing:
82.0
Utilities:
94.5
Transportation:
92.3
Health Care:
93.1
Miscellaneous:
89.7
Crime
Is Runnells, IA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Runnells are low, with violent crime at just 89 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime risk of 1 in 98. Residents enjoy a secure environment that enhances the community’s family-friendly reputation. Safety and peace of mind are key benefits for those considering a move here.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
89
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,020
Crime Index:
1,109
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,120
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 98
Weather
What is the weather like in Runnells, IA year-round?
Runnells experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers averaging highs of 86°F and cold winters dropping to 14°F. The area receives about 36 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine 59% of the year, offering residents a pleasant mix of weather for outdoor activities. Seasonal changes bring both snowy winters and mild, comfortable springs and falls.
Winter
Min:
14°F
Max:
33°F
Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
59%
Neighbors
The community in Runnells is characterized by a median household income of $78,400 and a low unemployment rate of 2.9%. Most residents are homeowners, and the poverty rate is below 8%, reflecting a stable and supportive local economy. High educational attainment and low public transport usage also point to a well-connected population with a strong sense of community.
Median Income:
$42,500
Household Income:
$78,400
Family Income:
$88,200
Per Capita Income:
$34,700
Income Male:
$48,200
Income Female:
$39,600
Poverty Rate:
7.9%
Non English Speakers:
2.4%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
2.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
28.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.1%
Bachelors or More:
26.5%
Education
How are the schools in Runnells, IA?
Runnells is served by highly rated public schools such as Southeast Polk High School and Runnells Elementary, offering favorable student-teacher ratios and strong academic programs. For higher education, residents have convenient access to Des Moines Area Community College and Drake University within a short drive. The town's commitment to education ensures quality learning opportunities from elementary through college.
Public Schools
Name:
Southeast Polk High School
Street:
7945 NE University Ave
Phone:
515-967-6631
Students:
2,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.7
Name:
Runnells Elementary School
Street:
6575 SE 116th St
Phone:
515-966-2068
Students:
275
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.2
Colleges
Name:
Des Moines Area Community College
City:
Ankeny
State:
IA
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
22,000
Name:
Drake University
City:
Des Moines
State:
IA
Distance:
22 miles
Students:
4,900
Healthcare
Residents of Runnells have access to comprehensive healthcare services, with major hospitals like UnityPoint Health and MercyOne nearby in Des Moines. The city boasts high health insurance coverage at 93.8% and a physician availability rate of 1.8 per 1,000 people. Quality care is easily accessible, ensuring peace of mind for families and individuals alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
UnityPoint Health - Iowa Lutheran Hospital
Address:
700 E University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50316
Phone:
(515) 263-5612
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center
Address:
1111 6th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314
Phone:
(515) 247-3121
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.8%
Health Care Index:
71.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Runnells, IA?
The housing market in Runnells is stable and affordable, featuring a median home price of $215,000 and an owner-occupied rate of over 85%. Rent is reasonable at $950 for a two-bedroom unit, and home appreciation remains steady at 3.6% annually. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates make it an attractive area for new homeowners.
Median Home Price:
$215,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
85.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.6%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
DMV services for Runnells residents are provided by the Iowa Department of Transportation in nearby Ankeny. The office offers comprehensive motor vehicle services, including licensing and registration, with convenient access for local drivers. Information and online services are available through the Iowa DOT website.
State:
Iowa
Department:
Iowa Department of Transportation - Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
6310 SE Convenience Blvd, Ankeny, IA 50021
Phone:
515-244-8725
Website:
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