
Everyday cost of living expenses like goods and services, housing, groceries, transportation, health care and utilities are far below the national average.
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.
Impressive scores in the housing category characterize this area, potentially attributed to the availability of affordable housing, strong appreciation rates and high home values.
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.
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.
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.
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, Winterset is a small city with a population of 5,460 residents. According to the most recent Census, 98% of Winterset residents are White, 2% Black and 1% American Indian and Alaskan.
Without the right tools, relocating to any new area can be very stressful and challenging. Living in Winterset, Iowa could be a positive 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 Winterset and in surrounding cities are easier to find when you are able to make informed decisions. Using data from amenities, cost of living, 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 Winterset has received a livability score of 77 out of 100. This score is ranked in the 90th percentile when compared to all other cities. This is a phenomenal score, as Winterset ranks well in multiple categories! Another exciting tidbit, is that Winterset ranks better than 90% of all US cities! If we take a closer look at each of the categories individually, we see that Winterset ranks well for crime (B+), cost of living (A+), education (B+), employment (B-) and housing (A+). Winterset 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.
Ensuring a sense of security is paramount for the majority of residents in any area. Low crime rates exert a positive influence on various aspects, including home prices, rates of home appreciation and the cultivation of positive community dynamics and social cohesion. In the case of Winterset, it boasts a notably low violent crime rate of 186 crimes per 100,000 residents, which significantly outperforms the national average.
Unemployment rates can range pretty dramatically from one city to another. Knowing that Winterset has an unemployment rate of 1.6% could mean increased job opportunities with a higher demand for workers. It could also lead to higher wages, as the demand for workers exceeds the availability of jobs. Most importantly, it could be a sign of a healthy and thriving local economy.
Standardized school test scores offer a valuable benchmark for assessing the quality of educational programs, instructional methods, and curriculum effectiveness. Recognizing that Winterset schools excel in test scores is a crucial consideration when determining the suitability of this area for residence. The local schools boast an impressive average test score of 70%, significantly higher than the national average. This stellar academic performance not only attests to the excellence of the educational system but also underscores the area's commitment to providing a high-quality education, making Winterset an appealing choice for those prioritizing their children's educational prospects.
Finding affordable real estate and housing in Winterset can be tricky. Having said that, this area might be the place to get the best of both worlds. Based on factors like home/rental affordability and appreciation rates, this area has received an above average score in the housing category. A healthy real estate market can lead to wealth appreciation for property owners, as rising property values can contribute to homeowners' equity, financial stability and the ability to build long-term wealth.
There are many factors that go into deciding if an area is the right fit for your lifestyle. Certain “must haves” like low crime, great schools and nearby amenities are all at the top of most people's lists. But before even considering if those options are attainable, we'll need to know if the real estate in Winterset is actually affordable. Median real estate prices in Winterset come in at $290,296, which is 20.9% higher than the Iowa average. The home price to income ratio compares the median home prices to the median household income. In Winterset, the home price to income ratio is 3.3, which is 10% higher than the Iowa average.

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| Statistic | Winterset | Iowa | National |
| Average one way commute | 22min | 19min | 26min |
| Workers who drive to work | 73.8% | 80.7% | 76.4% |
| Workers who carpool | 10.7% | 8.6% | 9.3% |
| Workers who take public transit | 0.1% | 1.1% | 5.1% |
| Workers who bicycle | 0.4% | 0.5% | 0.6% |
| Workers who walk | 3.5% | 3.5% | 2.8% |
| Working from home | 11.5% | 4.5% | 4.6% |