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Moving to Storm Lake, IA

Thinking of making a move to Storm Lake, 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 Storm Lake, IA

Considering a move to Storm Lake, IA? This welcoming community of 11,269 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $141,000 and average rents near $790. Commute times average 13 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (59% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Storm Lake's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Storm Lake, IA

Storm Lake has a population of 11,269 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 31 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 41% White, 4% Black, and 16% Asian residents, and over 31% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

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?

The cost of living in Storm Lake is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 82.1. Median home values are around $141,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $790. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

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 is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 235 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 73. 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
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?

Storm Lake experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 83°F and cold winters dipping to 8°F. The area receives about 32 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 59% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
8°F
Max
29°F

Summer

Min
59°F
Max
83°F

Spring

Min
37°F
Max
62°F

Fall

Min
37°F
Max
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches
31.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
59%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $54,302 and a low poverty rate of 17.0%. Over 77% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 19% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 13 minutes, and almost 1% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

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 quality education options, with public schools like Storm Lake High School and Storm Lake Elementary School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Buena Vista University. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

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, with major hospitals like Buena Vista Regional Medical Center nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 1.5 per 1,000 people and 89.3% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

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

Healthcare Access

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 strong, with a median home price of $141,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 63%. The market has seen a 3.2% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 6.9%. Storm Lake offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

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

Residents of Storm Lake handle vehicle services through the Iowa Department of Transportation, conveniently located in Fort Dodge. 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
1300 18th St N, Fort Dodge, IA 50501
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 Storm Lake, IA

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

Before moving to Storm Lake, review the core fields on this page: population 11,269, median home value $141,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $790, commute time 13.2 minutes, and sunny days percentage 59%.

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