Everything You Should Know Before Moving to State Center, IA
Considering a move to State Center, IA? This small city of 1,391 residents offers affordable living, with a median home price around $148,500 and average rent just $675. The community enjoys low crime rates, short 21-minute commutes, and a high rate of homeownership. With good schools, a friendly small-town vibe, and four distinct seasons with 60% sunny days, State Center is a great place for families or anyone seeking a peaceful Iowa lifestyle.
Demographics - State Center, IA
Demographics - State Center, IA
State Center is home to 1,391 residents, offering a close-knit community with a median age of 41.2 and an even gender balance. The population is predominantly White, with a small percentage of non-English speakers, creating a welcoming and familiar Midwest atmosphere.
Population:
1,391
Density:
1,390 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.6%

Ethnic Composition
White:
94.7%
Black:
0.4%
Asian:
0.3%
Others:
4.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in State Center, IA?
The cost of living in State Center is notably affordable, with a cost of living index of 83.2 and median home values at $148,500. Residents benefit from low rents averaging $675 and reasonable utility costs, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families.
Median House Value:
$148,500
Gross Rent:
$675
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,070
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$430
State Taxes:
Low:
0.33%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.2
Grocery:
93.0
Housing:
61.0
Utilities:
97.5
Transportation:
86.5
Health Care:
94.6
Miscellaneous:
91.0
Crime
Is State Center, IA a safe place to live?
State Center boasts low crime rates, with only 103 violent crimes and 1,120 property crimes per 100,000 people. The chance of experiencing violent crime is just 1 in 970, offering peace of mind for new residents.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
103
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,120
Crime Index:
1,223
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 970
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 89
Weather
What is the weather like in State Center, IA year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 84°F and cold winters dipping to 10°F. The area receives about 34.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 60% of the year, making for a balanced Midwestern climate.

Winter
Min:
10°F
Max:
31°F

Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
63°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
84°F

Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
34.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
The community features a median household income of $58,900 and a low unemployment rate of 2.8%. Most neighbors have at least a high school diploma, and the average commute time is a manageable 21 minutes, supporting a comfortable and connected small-town lifestyle.
Median Income:
$38,500
Household Income:
$58,900
Family Income:
$71,100
Per Capita Income:
$28,200
Income Male:
$44,500
Income Female:
$36,900
Poverty Rate:
8.1%
Non English Speakers:
3.6%
Rent:
$675
Unemployment Rate:
2.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.4%
Commute Time:
21.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
93.5%
Bachelors or More:
21.9%
Education
How are the schools in State Center, IA?
State Center is served by well-rated public schools with low student-teacher ratios, fostering a supportive learning environment. Nearby higher education options include Marshalltown Community College and Iowa State University, both within easy driving distance.

Public Schools
Name:
West Marshall Elementary School
Street:
605 3rd St NW
Phone:
641-483-2671
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
West Marshall High School
Street:
601 3rd St NW
Phone:
641-483-2136
Students:
310
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.0

Colleges
Name:
Marshalltown Community College
City:
Marshalltown
State:
IA
Distance:
16 miles
Students:
2,000
Name:
Iowa State University
City:
Ames
State:
IA
Distance:
28 miles
Students:
29,000
Healthcare
State Center offers convenient access to quality healthcare, with two major hospitals nearby and 2 physicians per 1,000 residents. Over 94% of locals have health insurance, ensuring comprehensive medical support for families and individuals.

Major Hospitals
Name:
UnityPoint Health – Marshalltown
Address:
55 UnityPoint Way, Marshalltown, IA 50158
Phone:
(641) 754-5151
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Mary Greeley Medical Center
Address:
1111 Duff Ave, Ames, IA 50010
Phone:
(515) 239-2011
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.3%
Health Care Index:
78.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in State Center, IA?
The housing market is stable, with a median home price of $148,500 and a strong owner-occupied rate of 74.6%. Home values have appreciated by 5.1% in the past year, making it a sound investment for homebuyers.
Median Home Price:
$148,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$675
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
All vehicle and licensing needs are managed through the Iowa Department of Transportation's Motor Vehicle Division in Ankeny. Residents can access services online or by phone, providing straightforward support for drivers in State Center.
State:
Iowa
Department:
Iowa Department of Transportation – Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
6310 SE Convenience Blvd, Ankeny, IA 50021
Phone:
1-800-532-1121
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.