What to know when moving to Clarence, IA
Clarence at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 34.2% of residents are renters and the median household income is $66,375.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent is $878, which can fit various budgets.
- The Reality Check:
- The poverty rate is 13.9%, indicating some economic challenges.
- Commute:
- Only 0% of residents use public transit, making it a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Plan for 32.4 inches of rain annually, so investing in good rain gear might be wise.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
With a population of 1,513, Clarence has a diverse community with a modest educational attainment rate, as only 14.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The area has a relatively low renter percentage compared to homeowners, making it suitable for those seeking stability in a neighborhood where the median owner-occupied home value is $165,400. Outdoor options are available with local parks and trails, adding some recreational appeal.
Probably not your spot if you rely on public transportation, as there are no public transit options available.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $878, significantly lower than many urban areas.
- Median owner-occupied home value is $165,400, which could be more affordable than nearby cities.
- 14.1% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher, indicating a relatively modest education level.
- The poverty rate stands at 13.9%, suggesting some economic diversity.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Iowa has seen a decrease in crime rates over recent years, making it a relatively safe state. Property crime rates are lower than the national average, with a state annual rate of 1,201.8 per 100,000 compared to the national rate of 1,546.9.
- Violent crime rate: 236.6 per 100,000, which is below the national average of 325.3.
- Property crime rate: 1,201.8 per 100,000, showing a 17.3% decrease since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rates have dropped by 21.2% since 2022, with an annual rate of 1.6 per 100,000.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Iowa).
Weather & Getting Outside
Cedar County experiences an annual average temperature of 49°F, with highs reaching up to 98°F in the summer and lows dropping to 14°F in the winter. The area receives about 32.4 inches of precipitation each year, which includes 84 rainy days.
- Eden Valley County Refuge - 4.7 stars (255 reviews)
- Clarence City Park - 4.6 stars (56 reviews)
- Cedar County Historical Society and Museum - 4.9 stars (31 reviews)
- Cedar County Attic Museum - 5 stars (3 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
Cedar County has a labor force of 10,296, with an unemployment rate of 3.3% as of December 2025. A total of 9,956 individuals are employed in the county.
- Unemployment rate: 3.3% (December 2025)
- Employed: 9,956
- Labor force: 10,296
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.