Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Storm Lake, IA
Considering a move to Storm Lake, IA? With a population of about 11,269, Storm Lake offers affordable living—median home prices are $141,000 and average rents around $790. The city features a short average commute time of 13.2 minutes and a diverse community with a strong multilingual presence. Crime rates are below national averages, and local schools and healthcare options are solid, including Buena Vista University and a regional medical center. Enjoy four distinct seasons and plenty of sunny days in this welcoming Iowa community.
Demographics - Storm Lake, IA
Demographics - Storm Lake, IA
Storm Lake is a diverse city of just over 11,000 residents, with a youthful median age of 31 and a balanced gender ratio. Nearly a third of the population speaks a language other than English at home, reflecting its multicultural character. The city's population density and ethnic mix contribute to a vibrant local culture.
Population:
11,269
Density:
1,800 per sq mi
Median Age:
31.1
Gender Ratio:
101 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
30.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
40.5%
Black:
4.2%
Asian:
16.1%
Others:
39.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Storm Lake, IA?
Storm Lake offers an affordable cost of living, with median home values around $141,000 and average rents at $790. Daily expenses like groceries and utilities are lower than the national average, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious individuals and families. State taxes and homeowner costs also remain relatively modest compared to larger cities.
Median House Value:
$141,000
Gross Rent:
$790
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$850
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,060
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$380
State Taxes:
Low:
0.33%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.1
Grocery:
94.7
Housing:
56.3
Utilities:
92.2
Transportation:
87.4
Health Care:
97.3
Miscellaneous:
91.0
Crime
Is Storm Lake, IA a safe place to live?
Storm Lake experiences lower crime rates than many cities its size, with a violent crime rate of 235 per 100,000 and a 1 in 426 chance of being a victim. Property crimes are more common, but overall safety remains above the national average. Residents can feel secure in their neighborhoods while still taking standard precautions.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
235
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,365
Crime Index:
1,600
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 426
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 73
Weather
What is the weather like in Storm Lake, IA year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm summers averaging highs in the low 80s and cold winters dipping to around 8°F at night. The city receives about 31.6 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine on nearly 60% of days. This climate supports a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year.
Winter
Min:
8°F
Max:
29°F
Spring
Min:
37°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
37°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
31.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
59%
Neighbors
Households in Storm Lake typically earn a median income of $54,302, with a per capita income of $22,337 and a poverty rate of 17%. The average commute is a quick 13 minutes, and most residents drive to work. Education levels are solid, with over 77% of adults holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$32,554
Household Income:
$54,302
Family Income:
$62,600
Per Capita Income:
$22,337
Income Male:
$33,400
Income Female:
$26,800
Poverty Rate:
17.0%
Non English Speakers:
30.8%
Rent:
$790
Unemployment Rate:
3.3%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
13.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
77.3%
Bachelors or More:
18.7%
Education
How are the schools in Storm Lake, IA?
Storm Lake offers a range of educational opportunities, including public schools like Storm Lake High and Elementary, as well as private options such as St. Mary's School. Buena Vista University is located within the city, providing higher education and enriching the local community. Student-to-teacher ratios in local schools support personalized learning.
Public Schools
Name:
Storm Lake High School
Street:
621 Tornado Dr
Phone:
712-732-8065
Students:
800
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.6
Name:
Storm Lake Elementary School
Street:
1810 Hyland Dr
Phone:
712-732-8060
Students:
1,050
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Private Schools
Name:
St. Mary's School
Street:
312 Seneca St
Phone:
712-732-4166
Students:
240
Colleges
Name:
Buena Vista University
City:
Storm Lake
State:
IA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,900
Healthcare
Storm Lake residents have access to quality healthcare, including the Buena Vista Regional Medical Center, which offers general and emergency services. The city boasts a high health insurance coverage rate of 89% and has 1.5 physicians per 1,000 people. Healthcare costs are generally manageable compared to national figures.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Buena Vista Regional Medical Center
Address:
1525 W 5th St, Storm Lake, IA 50588
Phone:
(712) 732-4030
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.3%
Health Care Index:
69.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Storm Lake, IA?
The local housing market is affordable, with median home prices at $141,000 and owner-occupied rates over 63%. Homes have appreciated modestly at 3.2% over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain healthy. Both buyers and renters can find options to suit a variety of needs and budgets.
Median Home Price:
$141,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$790
Owner Occupied Rate:
63.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Storm Lake residents are served by the Iowa Department of Transportation, with the nearest office located in Fort Dodge. The DMV provides licensing, registration, and title services, and helpful information is available online. Contact details and hours are easily accessible for those new to the area.
State:
Iowa
Department:
Iowa Department of Transportation
Address:
1300 18th St N, Fort Dodge, IA 50501
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.