Cost Of Living
Everyday cost of living expenses like goods and services, housing, groceries, transportation, health care and utilities are far below the national average.
Employment
With higher than average median household income, income per capita and lower unemployment rates, this area scores extremely well in the employment category.
Housing
Impressive scores in the housing category characterize this area, potentially attributed to the availability of affordable housing, strong appreciation rates and high home values.
Health & Safety
Accessible health facilities like hospitals, doctors offices, clinics and nursing homes as well as good air quality are all factors that have led to a high score in this category.
Schools
The high score in the schools category can be attributed to outstanding test scores, elevated graduation rates and the convenient placement of elementary and high schools in this area.
Commute
Low commute scores could be due to limited access to public transit in this area, as well as longer-than-average work commute times for residents.
Located in the state of Iowa, Sheldon is a small-sized city with a population of 5,334 residents. If we take a look at the last Census, the vast majority of the population falls within one racial group (93% White). Given that fact, Sheldon could be considered less diverse than other cities. Not a fan of sitting in traffic during your commute to work? Sheldon offers shorter work commutes, with an average one-way commute time taking only 13 minutes, far lower than the national average of 26 minutes.
Without the right tools, relocating to any new city can be very stressful and challenging. Living in Sheldon, Iowa could be a good experience for anyone who puts in the time to do the research required. When searching for a new neighborhood, several key items should be considered. Safety is paramount, ensuring a secure environment for you and your family. Proximity to workplaces or schools reduces commuting time and enhances convenience. Access to amenities like parks, grocery stores and healthcare facilities contributes to a comfortable lifestyle. Reliable public transportation options promote easy mobility. A strong sense of community fosters social connections and a welcoming atmosphere. The best areas in Sheldon and in surrounding cities are easier to find when you are able to make informed decisions. Using data from amenities, cost of living, commute, housing, you will see a detailed breakdown of the most important information as well as comparisons to the Iowa and national averages.
Sheldon has a livability score of 84/100 and is ranked #16 in Iowa and #623 in the USA. Based on this score, Sheldon would be considered a very livable city! Sheldon has also earned the rare honor of ranking in the top 10 percentile among all cities. There are nine total categories that form the livability score. Sheldon ranks well for crime (B), cost of living (A+), education (A+), employment (B+) and housing (A+)
Unemployment rates can vary significantly among cities, impacting job prospects, wage levels and the overall economic health of an area. In Sheldon, the unemployment rate stands at 0.7%, suggesting increased job opportunities and a heightened demand for workers. This scenario can lead to higher wages, as the demand for employees outpaces job availability. Importantly, a low unemployment rate often signifies a robust and flourishing local economy.
Test scores serve as a vital gauge of a school's academic prowess and the proficiency of its students. They play a pivotal role in assessing whether local schools can deliver a robust educational foundation for children. In Sheldon, the schools boast an impressive average test score of 76%, significantly higher than the national average. This outstanding academic achievement not only reflects the excellence of the local educational system, but also indicates the potential for students to thrive academically, making it an attractive destination for families seeking a high-quality education for their children.
A healthy real estate market serves as a key economic indicator. It could signify overall local economic strength, stability and reflects consumer confidence in the area. Based on multiple factors including: median home and rental prices, appreciation rates and home affordability, Sheldon has received high marks in the housing category. Based on these calculations, the apartment rental and real estate market appears to be very healthy.
Sheldon real estate prices and overall affordability will play a huge role in determining if the area is the right fit for you. Of course there are probably some other items on your “wish list”, but even before they are considered, let’s take a look at the home prices and affordability in Sheldon. The median home price for Sheldon homes is $260,261, which is 8.4% higher than the Iowa average. If we take a closer look at the affordability of homes in Sheldon, we’ll see that the home price to income ratio is 3.2, which is 6.7% higher than the Iowa average.
| Statistic | Sheldon | Iowa | National |
| Average one way commute | 13min | 19min | 26min |
| Workers who drive to work | 73.6% | 80.7% | 76.4% |
| Workers who carpool | 17.0% | 8.6% | 9.3% |
| Workers who take public transit | 4.0% | 1.1% | 5.1% |
| Workers who bicycle | 0.6% | 0.5% | 0.6% |
| Workers who walk | 2.0% | 3.5% | 2.8% |
| Working from home | 2.3% | 4.5% | 4.6% |
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