Iowa / Clay County

Moving to Spencer, IA

Thinking of making a move to Spencer, IA? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Spencer, IA

Considering a move to Spencer, IA? This welcoming community of 11,317 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $167,000 and average rents near $770. Commute times average 14 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (60% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Spencer's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Spencer, IA

Spencer has a population of 11,317 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 41 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 94% White, 1% Black, and 1% Asian residents, and over 5% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
11,317
Density
1,155 per sq mi
Median Age
41.2
Gender Ratio
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
4.8%

Ethnic Composition

White
94.2%
Black
0.9%
Asian
0.7%
Others
4.2%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Spencer, IA?

The cost of living in Spencer is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 80.1. Median home values are around $167,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $770. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$167,000
Gross Rent
$770
Monthly Electricity Charges
$110
Auto Insurance
$950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$385
State Taxes
Low: 0.33%| High: 8.53%
Cost Of Living Index
80.1
Grocery
94.0
Housing
67.3
Utilities
97.7
Transportation
86.5
Health Care
92.1
Miscellaneous
90.5

Crime

Is Spencer, IA a safe place to live?

Spencer is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 204 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 53. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Iowa.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
204
Property Crimes Per 100k
1,892
Crime Index
2,096
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 490
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 53

Weather

What is the weather like in Spencer, IA year-round?

Spencer experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 83°F and cold winters dipping to 8°F. The area receives about 29 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 60% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
8°F
Max
28°F

Summer

Min
59°F
Max
83°F

Spring

Min
36°F
Max
64°F

Fall

Min
38°F
Max
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches
29.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
60%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $56,100 and a low poverty rate of 11.2%. Over 93% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 24% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 14 minutes, and almost 0% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$34,200
Household Income
$56,100
Family Income
$74,900
Per Capita Income
$31,100
Income Male
$44,400
Income Female
$29,200
Poverty Rate
11.2%
Non English Speakers
4.8%
Rent
$770
Unemployment Rate
2.7%
Public Transport Usage
0.2%
Commute Time
13.7 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
93.4%
Bachelors or More
23.7%

Education

How are the schools in Spencer, IA?

Spencer offers quality education options, with public schools like Spencer High School and Johnson Elementary School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Iowa Lakes Community College - Spencer Campus. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Spencer High School
Street
800 E 3rd St
Phone
712-262-1700
Students
650
Student Teacher Ratio
14.5
Name
Johnson Elementary School
Street
724 W 9th St
Phone
712-262-2710
Students
350
Student Teacher Ratio
15.1

Private Schools

Name
Sacred Heart School
Street
1111 4th Ave W
Phone
712-262-6428
Students
110

Colleges

Name
Iowa Lakes Community College - Spencer Campus
City
Spencer
State
IA
Distance
0 miles
Students
350

Healthcare

Spencer residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Spencer Hospital nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 2.0 per 1,000 people and 94.2% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Spencer Hospital
Address
1200 1st Ave E, Spencer, IA 51301
Phone
(712) 264-6198
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
2.0
Health Insurance Coverage
94.2%
Health Care Index
78.7

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Spencer, IA?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $167,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 68%. The market has seen a 4.5% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 7.2%. Spencer offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$167,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$770
Owner Occupied Rate
67.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
4.5%
New Construction Rate
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate
0.3%

DMV Information

Residents of Spencer handle vehicle services through the Iowa Department of Transportation, conveniently located in Spencer. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Iowa
Department
Iowa Department of Transportation
Address
1306 S. Grand Ave, Spencer, IA 51301
Phone
515-244-8725

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.

FAQs About Moving to Spencer, IA

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Spencer, review the core fields on this page: population 11,317, median home value $167,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $770, commute time 13.7 minutes, and sunny days percentage 60%.

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