Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Scotch Ridge, IA
Considering a move to Scotch Ridge, IA? This small rural community of about 200 residents offers a peaceful lifestyle with a low cost of living—median home prices around $240,000 and average rent at $950. Enjoy low crime rates, short 24-minute average commutes, and highly rated schools nearby in Indianola. With 63% sunny days, friendly neighbors, and easy access to major hospitals, Scotch Ridge is a welcoming spot for those seeking affordability and tranquility in central Iowa.
Demographics - Scotch Ridge, IA
Demographics - Scotch Ridge, IA
Scotch Ridge is a small, close-knit rural community of approximately 200 residents, with a median age of 42.7 and a nearly even gender balance. The population is predominantly White, and most locals speak English, fostering a familiar Midwestern atmosphere. The low population density offers plenty of space and a tranquil pace of life.
Population:
Approx. 200
Density:
20 per sq mi
Median Age:
42.7
Gender Ratio:
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
96.1%
Black:
0.8%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
2.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Scotch Ridge, IA?
Living in Scotch Ridge is notably affordable, with a median home value of $240,000 and average rent around $950 per month. Utility and transportation costs are below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families. State taxes remain moderate, supporting a low overall cost of living index.
Median House Value:
$240,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,145
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,280
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
0.33%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
89.0
Grocery:
95.4
Housing:
75.2
Utilities:
97.1
Transportation:
89.6
Health Care:
94.7
Miscellaneous:
92.8
Crime
Is Scotch Ridge, IA a safe place to live?
Scotch Ridge experiences low crime rates, with violent crime occurring at just 110 incidents per 100,000 residents and property crime at 1,025 per 100,000. Residents enjoy a strong sense of safety, with the odds of violent crime at 1 in 900. The peaceful atmosphere makes it ideal for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
110
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,025
Crime Index:
1,135
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 900
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 98
Weather
What is the weather like in Scotch Ridge, IA year-round?
Residents of Scotch Ridge enjoy four seasons, with warm summers reaching 85°F, chilly winters dipping to 14°F, and an annual rainfall of just over 36 inches. The area sees sunshine about 63% of the year, making for pleasant days outdoors. Seasonal changes offer variety, from snowy winters to mild, breezy springs and falls.
Winter
Min:
14°F
Max:
33°F
Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
66°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
The community features a median household income of $82,000 and a low poverty rate of 7.1%, reflecting overall economic stability. Most adults have completed high school, and nearly a third hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. With an average commute time of 24 minutes, Scotch Ridge balances rural peace with access to nearby jobs and amenities.
Median Income:
$47,200
Household Income:
$82,000
Family Income:
$94,700
Per Capita Income:
$38,600
Income Male:
$51,400
Income Female:
$41,900
Poverty Rate:
7.1%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
3.4%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
24.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.9%
Bachelors or More:
28.3%
Education
How are the schools in Scotch Ridge, IA?
Families in Scotch Ridge benefit from highly rated public and private schools in nearby Indianola, with favorable student-teacher ratios and a range of academic options. The presence of Simpson College just 8 miles away offers local higher education opportunities. This makes the area attractive for families seeking quality education from kindergarten through college.
Public Schools
Name:
Indianola High School
Street:
1304 E 1st Ave, Indianola, IA 50125
Phone:
515-961-9510
Students:
1,050
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.4
Name:
Indianola Middle School
Street:
403 S 15th St, Indianola, IA 50125
Phone:
515-961-9530
Students:
780
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.8
Private Schools
Name:
Indianola Christian School
Street:
1203 N E St, Indianola, IA 50125
Phone:
515-961-5755
Students:
72
Colleges
Name:
Simpson College
City:
Indianola
State:
IA
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
1,250
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is robust, with two major hospitals nearby in Knoxville and Pella offering emergency services. About 93% of residents have health insurance coverage, and the community benefits from nearly two physicians per 1,000 people. This ensures timely care and peace of mind for local families.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Knoxville Hospital & Clinics
Address:
1002 S Lincoln St, Knoxville, IA 50138
Phone:
(641) 842-2151
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Pella Regional Health Center
Address:
404 Jefferson St, Pella, IA 50219
Phone:
(641) 628-3150
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.0%
Health Care Index:
78.9
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Scotch Ridge, IA?
The Scotch Ridge housing market is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $240,000 and high owner-occupancy at over 82%. The rental vacancy rate is moderate, and home values have appreciated by 4.2% in the past year. Low foreclosure and new construction rates contribute to a steady, welcoming market for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$240,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
82.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Local residents can access driver and vehicle services through the Iowa Department of Transportation, with the nearest office located in Ankeny. The department offers a user-friendly website and phone support for licensing, registration, and other motor vehicle needs. Most tasks can be completed online or by visiting the convenient Ankeny location.
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.