Cost Of Living
Residents in this area benefit from an affordable cost of living. This includes goods and services, transportation, housing, utilities, groceries and healthcare.
Crime
This area is characterized by a crime rate, per 100,000 individuals, that falls well below the national average, indicating its potential as a very safe place to live.
Housing
The housing category in this area boasts higher than average scores, likely influenced by a positive home affordability ratio, robust appreciation rates or elevated home values.
Health & Safety
Earning a high health and safety score depends on factors such as good air quality and the availability of essential health facilities like hospitals, clinics, doctors, and fire stations.
Schools
A high score in the schools category could be the result of elements like top-notch test scores, high education levels and the convenient location of elementary and high schools in this area.
Amenities
It appears that many amenities may not be conveniently situated within walking distance, potentially necessitating the use of a vehicle or public transit.
Commute
Commuters in this area may experience longer-than-average work commute times due to limited public transportation access.
Independence, Iowa is a small city with a population of 6,085 residents. If we look at the most recent Census, Independence is known to have a predominantly White population. The next two most common races are Black and Asian.
If you’re considering moving to any new city, it could be a very daunting task. However, it could also be a positive experience if you are willing to get to know the town before actually living in Independence, 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 Independence and in surrounding cities are easier to find when you are able to make informed decisions. Using data from amenities, crime, health & safety, education, you will see a detailed breakdown of the most important information as well as comparisons to the Iowa and national averages.
The livability score in Independence is 74 out of 100 and the city is ranked in the 86th percentile of all cities across America. If we examine each of the categories individually, we see that Independence ranks well for crime (B+), education (A+), employment (B-) and housing (A-). There are some categories that Independence scores poorly for, including: amenities (F). It might be worth taking a closer look to figure out why.
Low violent crime rates (murder, rape, robbery, assault) provide a safer environment for residents, reducing the risk of personal harm, property theft or violence. Low crime can also lead to increased property values and desirability. With 144 crimes per 100,000 residents, Independence has a violent crime rate that is far below the national average.
Unemployment rates can range pretty dramatically from one city to another. Knowing that Independence has an unemployment rate of 1.39% 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.
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 Independence, the schools boast an impressive average test score of 69%, 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.
Finding affordable real estate and housing in Independence 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.
Independence 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 Independence. The median home price for Independence homes is $129,900, which is 2.2% lower than the Iowa average. If we take a closer look at the affordability of homes in Independence, we’ll see that the home price to income ratio is 2.2, which is 8.3% lower than the Iowa average.
| Statistic | Independence | Iowa | National |
| Average one way commute | 22min | 19min | 26min |
| Workers who drive to work | 83.2% | 80.7% | 76.4% |
| Workers who carpool | 9.8% | 8.6% | 9.3% |
| Workers who take public transit | 0.4% | 1.1% | 5.1% |
| Workers who bicycle | 0.4% | 0.5% | 0.6% |
| Workers who walk | 2.2% | 3.5% | 2.8% |
| Working from home | 2.4% | 4.5% | 4.6% |
Here are the best places to live in Iowa
Safest States In The US
Safest Cities In The US
See the best places to live in Independence