Everything You Should Know Before Moving to What Cheer, IA
Considering a move to What Cheer, IA? This small, friendly town of about 600 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $62,000 and two-bedroom rents near $590. Residents enjoy a short average commute of 24 minutes, low crime rates, and a close-knit atmosphere. The local schools are small but supportive, and you’ll find plenty of sunny days and classic Iowa seasons. Explore more about housing, costs, and local amenities below to see if What Cheer is your next home!
Demographics - What Cheer, IA
Demographics - What Cheer, IA
What Cheer, Iowa is a small community of around 600 residents, with a population density that gives it a quiet, close-knit feel. The median age of 46.2 reflects a mature population, and the town is predominantly White, with a very small percentage of non-English speakers. This demographic mix contributes to a peaceful, neighborly atmosphere ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Population:
607
Density:
614 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
96.1%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.2%
Others:
3.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in What Cheer, IA?
Living in What Cheer is highly affordable, with a median home value of just $62,000 and rents averaging $590 for a two-bedroom. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. Utilities and groceries are also reasonably priced, helping residents keep expenses low.
Median House Value:
$62,000
Gross Rent:
$590
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$790
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$350
State Taxes:
Low:
0.33%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
79.2
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
52.0
Utilities:
91.0
Transportation:
82.0
Health Care:
95.0
Miscellaneous:
81.0
Crime
Is What Cheer, IA a safe place to live?
What Cheer enjoys a low crime rate, with violent crime well below national averages—residents have a 1 in 476 chance of experiencing violent crime. Property crime is also comparatively infrequent, contributing to a sense of safety and security in daily life. The town's peaceful environment is a key draw for those valuing personal security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
210
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,040
Crime Index:
1,250
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 476
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 96
Weather
What is the weather like in What Cheer, IA year-round?
Residents experience all four classic Midwestern seasons, with cold winters averaging lows around 14°F and warm summers peaking near 85°F. The area receives about 37 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine about 60% of the year. This climate supports a variety of outdoor activities and offers a true taste of Iowa's seasonal changes.
Winter
Min:
14°F
Max:
34°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
Households in What Cheer have a median income of $44,250, with a per capita income of $23,200, reflecting a modest but stable local economy. The area has a low unemployment rate of 3.8% and a high school graduation rate over 87%, fostering a hard-working, educated community. Commute times are short, public transport use is minimal, and the friendly atmosphere is enhanced by a small-town spirit.
Median Income:
$28,000
Household Income:
$44,250
Family Income:
$52,100
Per Capita Income:
$23,200
Income Male:
$32,000
Income Female:
$23,000
Poverty Rate:
15.9%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$590
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.1%
Commute Time:
23.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
87.6%
Bachelors or More:
13.2%
Education
How are the schools in What Cheer, IA?
Education in What Cheer is centered around small public schools with favorable student-to-teacher ratios, offering personalized attention to students. For higher education, William Penn University is located just 18 miles away, providing convenient access to college-level opportunities. The local focus on education helps support a well-rounded, engaged community.
Public Schools
Name:
Tri-County Elementary School
Street:
3003 HWY 22, Thornburg, IA 50255
Phone:
641-634-2636
Students:
110
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.5
Name:
Tri-County Junior-Senior High School
Street:
3003 HWY 22, Thornburg, IA 50255
Phone:
641-634-2636
Students:
120
Student Teacher Ratio:
9.8
Colleges
Name:
William Penn University
City:
Oskaloosa
State:
IA
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
1,350
Healthcare
Healthcare access is robust for a town of its size, with two major hospitals located within a short drive, ensuring residents have nearby emergency and general care services. About 92% of residents are covered by health insurance, and the area has a reasonable number of physicians per capita. This provides peace of mind for families and retirees considering a move.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Mahaska Health Partnership
Address:
1229 C Ave E, Oskaloosa, IA 52577
Phone:
(641) 672-3240
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
UnityPoint Health – Grinnell Regional Medical Center
Address:
210 4th Ave, Grinnell, IA 50112
Phone:
(641) 236-7511
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.1%
Health Care Index:
76.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in What Cheer, IA?
The housing market in What Cheer is very affordable, with median home prices at $62,000 and most residents owning their homes. Rental options are available and reasonably priced, and the area has seen modest home appreciation in the past year. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates indicate a stable, accessible housing environment.
Median Home Price:
$62,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$590
Owner Occupied Rate:
71.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
DMV services for What Cheer residents are provided by the Iowa Department of Transportation, located in Ankeny. Residents can access licensing, registration, and other vehicle services both in-person and online through the official Iowa DOT website. The process is straightforward and supported by helpful state resources.
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.