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.
Crime
This area boasts a crime rate that is far below the national average, making it a very safe place to live. These crime statistics encompass both property and violent offenses.
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.
Amenities
The majority of amenities will be difficult to reach within a short walk, often requiring residents to use a vehicle or public transportation for access.
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.
Spencer, Iowa is a mid-sized city with a population of 11,331 inhabitants. According to the most recent Census, 95% of Spencer residents are White, 1% Asian and 0% Black. Not a fan of sitting in traffic during your commute to work? Spencer offers shorter work commutes, with an average one-way commute time taking only 15 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 Spencer, Iowa could be a fulfilling 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. To help you find the best places to live in and around Spencer, AreaVibes has created a livability score using key metrics like amenities, commute, health & safety, employment, housing and more.
With a livability score of 76 out of 100, Spencer is ranked #3,219 in the United States and #181 in Iowa. This is a terrific score, as Spencer ranks well in multiple categories! Based on the scores for each individual category, Spencer has received high marks for crime (A+), cost of living (A+), education (A+) and housing (A+). There is at least one category that does not have great scores in Spencer. The following was graded with a concerning score: amenities (F) and employment (D).
Crime rates play a pivotal role in the decision-making process for anyone considering a move, as they directly influence the overall sense of safety, security and quality of life in a given location. Spencer shines in this regard, earning exemplary ratings for its exceptionally low violent crime rates, standing at 52 crimes per 100,000 residents. These rates are notably below the national average, underscoring the community's commitment to safety and contributing to an enhanced quality of life.
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 Spencer, the schools boast an impressive average test score of 79%, 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.
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 Spencer 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.
Spencer 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 Spencer. Median real estate prices in Spencer come in at $240,813, which is 0.3% higher than the Iowa average. The home price to income ratio compares the median home prices to the median household income. In Spencer, the home price to income ratio is 3.5, which is 16.7% higher than the Iowa average.
Why stop at city-to-city? With Local Insights, you can compare neighborhoods, zip codes, or even exact addresses. Access 300+ hyperlocal data points—from schools and crime to housing and amenities—to see which area is the better fit.
| Statistic | Spencer | Iowa | National |
| Average one way commute | 15min | 19min | 26min |
| Workers who drive to work | 80.0% | 80.7% | 76.4% |
| Workers who carpool | 10.3% | 8.6% | 9.3% |
| Workers who take public transit | 1.0% | 1.1% | 5.1% |
| Workers who bicycle | 0.6% | 0.5% | 0.6% |
| Workers who walk | 2.9% | 3.5% | 2.8% |
| Working from home | 4.7% | 4.5% | 4.6% |
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