Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Swea City, IA
Considering a move to Swea City, IA? This friendly small town of about 540 residents offers a quiet lifestyle with a low cost of living—median home prices are just $76,000 and average rents are $580. Crime rates are low, and commutes average only 18 minutes. Swea City boasts strong community schools, plenty of sunny days, and affordable amenities, making it a great choice for those seeking comfort and value in northern Iowa.
Demographics - Swea City, IA
Demographics - Swea City, IA
Swea City is a close-knit community of around 540 residents, with a median age of 44.5 and a nearly balanced gender ratio. The town is predominantly White, while about 4% of residents speak a language other than English at home, reflecting a modest level of diversity. Its moderate population density creates a relaxed small-town atmosphere ideal for families and retirees.
Population:
540
Density:
600 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.5
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4%
Ethnic Composition
White:
94.5%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.2%
Others:
4.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Swea City, IA?
Living in Swea City is highly affordable, with a median home value of $76,000 and average rent at $580 per month. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, especially in housing, utilities, and transportation, making the town an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals. State income taxes range from 0.33% to 8.53%, but everyday expenses remain manageable.
Median House Value:
$76,000
Gross Rent:
$580
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$415
State Taxes:
Low:
0.33%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
77.5
Grocery:
96.0
Housing:
49.0
Utilities:
93.0
Transportation:
92.0
Health Care:
95.0
Miscellaneous:
94.0
Crime
Is Swea City, IA a safe place to live?
Swea City offers a reassuring sense of safety, with a violent crime rate of 135 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 1,050 per 100,000. The chances of experiencing violent crime are about 1 in 740, which is lower than many U.S. communities. Residents can generally expect a secure environment and peaceful living.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
135
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,050
Crime Index:
1,185
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 740
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in Swea City, IA year-round?
Residents of Swea City experience all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 7°F and warm summers reaching up to 83°F. The area enjoys about 60% sunny days and receives an average of 32.5 inches of rainfall annually. Seasonal changes provide a classic Midwest climate, perfect for those who appreciate variety in their weather.
Winter
Min:
7°F
Max:
26°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
63°F
Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
Swea City is marked by a median household income of $53,400 and a low unemployment rate of 3.7%, fostering a stable economic environment. Most residents have completed high school, and commute times are short at just over 18 minutes. The area has a lower poverty rate than many rural communities, and public transport usage is minimal, highlighting the town's car-friendly lifestyle.
Median Income:
$36,000
Household Income:
$53,400
Family Income:
$61,500
Per Capita Income:
$27,800
Income Male:
$37,000
Income Female:
$32,000
Poverty Rate:
10.5%
Non English Speakers:
4%
Rent:
$580
Unemployment Rate:
3.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
18.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.5%
Bachelors or More:
17.0%
Education
How are the schools in Swea City, IA?
Education in Swea City is centered around North Union Elementary School, which maintains a low student-to-teacher ratio of 12.5 for personalized learning. While there are no private schools in town, higher education options like Iowa Lakes Community College are within a 25-mile drive. The local commitment to education ensures quality learning from elementary through college.
Public Schools
Name:
North Union Elementary School
Street:
400 4th Ave W
Phone:
515-272-4361
Students:
210
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5
Colleges
Name:
Iowa Lakes Community College
City:
Estherville
State:
IA
Distance:
25 miles
Students:
2,000
Healthcare
Access to healthcare in Swea City is strong, with major hospitals like Kossuth Regional Health Center and Fairmont Medical Center nearby. Residents benefit from a high rate of health insurance coverage at 95.6% and a healthcare index of 77.0, ensuring reliable medical services and peace of mind. The physician-to-population ratio is slightly lower than urban areas but meets the needs of this small community.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Kossuth Regional Health Center
Address:
1515 S Phillips St, Algona, IA 50511
Phone:
(515) 295-2451
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Fairmont Medical Center
Address:
800 Medical Center Dr, Fairmont, MN 56031
Phone:
(507) 238-8500
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
95.6%
Health Care Index:
77.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Swea City, IA?
The housing market in Swea City is highly accessible, with a median home price of $76,000 and a strong owner-occupied rate of 74.5%. Rental vacancies are moderate, and the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is just $580, making it easy for newcomers to find affordable housing. The town has seen steady but modest home value appreciation in recent years.
Median Home Price:
$76,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$580
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Swea City residents are served by the Iowa Department of Transportation, with the main office located in Ankeny. The department offers a full range of licensing and vehicle registration services both in-person and online through their official website. Helpful staff and accessible resources make managing your driving needs straightforward.
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.