Cost Of Living
The overall cost of living in this area is much lower than average. This includes everyday goods and services, as well as housing, utilities and health care.
Housing
This area has received high scores in the housing category. This could be due to a positive home affordability ratio, high appreciation rates or elevated home values.
Health & Safety
A high score in the health and safety category is a result of good air quality and the accessibility to health facilities such as hospitals, clinics, doctors, pharmacies and fire stations.
Schools
High test scores, elevated graduation rates as well as the conveniently located elementary and high schools in this area have all contributed to the high score in the schools category.
Ratings
Local residents have positive things to say about the proximity of restaurants, grocery stores, parks, public transit, friendliness of neighbors, sense of community and overall safety of the area.
Amenities
A majority of amenities are not ideally situated within a reasonable walking distance, which may lead residents to rely on a vehicle or public transportation.
Creston, Iowa is a small-sized city with a population of 7,754 inhabitants. If we take a look at the last Census, the vast majority of the population falls within one racial group (95% White). Given that fact, Creston could be considered less diverse than other cities. If you're not a fan of traffic congestion and long commute times to work, Creston is the place to be. Commutes to work here are shorter, with an average one-way commute time taking only 13 minutes, significantly lower than the national average of 26 minutes.
If you’re considering moving to any new city, it could be a very intimidating task. However, it could also be a positive experience if you are willing to get to know the city before actually living in Creston, Iowa. When searching for a new neighborhood, several key items should be considered. Safety is of utmost importance, ensuring a secure environment with low crime. Proximity to your workplace or school helps reduce commuting time and offers convenience. Access to amenities such as parks, grocery stores, and healthcare facilities enhances your daily life. Public transportation options contribute to easy mobility. A sense of community fosters a supportive and engaging environment. Lastly, the overall atmosphere should align with your desired lifestyle, ensuring a fulfilling living experience. Considering these items will guide you towards finding the perfect neighborhood that fits all your needs. The best areas in Creston and in surrounding cities are easier to find when you are able to make informed decisions. Using data from cost of living, commute, education, you will see a detailed breakdown of the most important information as well as comparisons to the Iowa and national averages.
Using data and statistics Creston has received a livability score of 78/100. This score is ranked in the 93rd percentile when compared to all other cities. Compared to the United States average, Creston ranks among some of the best places to live in the country! Creston has also earned the rare honor of ranking in the top 10 percentile among all cities. For each of the livability categories, we know that Creston ranks very well for education (B-) and housing (A+). Creston does not score well for the following: amenities (F). It might be a good idea to take a closer look at each category to find out why.
Managing monthly expenses, from grocery bills to never-ending utility costs, can swiftly accumulate. Fortunately, we're delighted to share that the cost of living in Creston is 20.25% lower than the national average. This translates to a tangible reduction in those persistent monthly expenditures, making Creston a city where you can anticipate lower costs across the board when compared to many other urban areas. This financial advantage not only eases the burden of day-to-day living but also allows for a more budget-friendly lifestyle, ensuring that your hard-earned money goes further and providing an appealing incentive for those seeking to improve their financial well-being in a world where expenses continue to rise.
When contemplating a move, job prospects often top the list of priorities. In Creston, the outlook for new employment is notably brighter than in many other areas. The low unemployment rate of 1.39% points to a surge in job opportunities, the potential for higher wages, enhanced workforce productivity and increased economic growth. These favorable conditions bode well for individuals seeking career advancement and financial stability, making this area an appealing destination for those prioritizing professional opportunities and economic prosperity.
For home buyers, real estate will be the largest purchase they will ever make and it will also be their most valuable asset. For renters, the monthly rent paid on their Creston apartments will most likely be their largest expense. Based on tangible metrics like home and rental affordability and appreciation rates, housing in this area has received a score that is well above the average of every other US city. A thriving real estate market can also generate strong local economic activity and job creation.
Assuming that Creston meets all of your requirements like low crime rates, good schools and great local amenities, the next most important item to examine is the affordability of real estate in Creston. Everything else becomes a lot less important if it turns out that home prices in Creston are simply unattainable. Median real estate prices in Creston come in at $101,700, which is 23.4% lower than the Iowa average. The home price to income ratio compares the median home prices to the median household income. In Creston, the home price to income ratio is 2.3, which is 4.2% lower than the Iowa average.
| Statistic | Creston | Iowa | National |
| Average one way commute | 13min | 19min | 26min |
| Workers who drive to work | 79.0% | 80.7% | 76.4% |
| Workers who carpool | 8.9% | 8.6% | 9.3% |
| Workers who take public transit | 0.5% | 1.1% | 5.1% |
| Workers who bicycle | 0.6% | 0.5% | 0.6% |
| Workers who walk | 8.7% | 3.5% | 2.8% |
| Working from home | 2.3% | 4.5% | 4.6% |
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