What to know when moving to Monroe, IA
Monroe at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community with 22% of residents renting and a median household income of $86,205.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent is $772, which is affordable for many.
- The Reality Check:
- Only 0% use public transit, indicating a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $772/month in rent to find a comfortable place.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Monroe is a small community with a population of 2,914, where 22% of residents are renters. The median household income is $86,205, reflecting a relatively stable economic environment. With a bachelor's degree attainment rate of 22.6%, the education level is moderate. This area is characterized by a very low public transit usage, meaning residents typically rely on cars for commuting.
Probably not your spot if you prefer public transportation, as the transit share is 0%.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $772, making it quite affordable compared to many urban areas.
- Median owner-occupied home value is $193,500, offering a viable option for those looking to buy.
- With a poverty rate of 4.4%, the community has a relatively low level of economic distress.
- The renter percentage is 22%, indicating a mix of ownership and renting.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Iowa has a lower crime rate compared to the national average, with property crime at a rate of 1,201.8 per 100,000 people, which is 22.3% lower than the national rate. Violent crime is at 236.6 per 100,000, 27.3% lower than the national average.
- Violent crime: 236.6 per 100k vs. national 325.3 per 100k, with a 20% decrease since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,201.8 per 100k vs. national 1,546.9 per 100k, with a 17.3% decrease since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rate is 1.6 per 100k, down 21.2% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Iowa).
Schools & Higher Ed
Monroe has access to nearby educational institutions, with one notable postsecondary option.
- Postsecondary institutions: 1 (Central College in Pella, IA)
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Jasper County experiences an average high of 64°F and an average low of 43°F annually, with around 342 days that are above freezing. The area enjoys seasonal changes with an average high of 85°F in summer and a low of 18°F in winter.
- Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
- Pella Historical Village & Vermeer Windmill - 4.7 stars (698 reviews)
- Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge - 4.7 stars (516 reviews)
- Cordova Park - 4.7 stars (450 reviews)
- Central Park - 4.8 stars (448 reviews)
- Maytag Park - 4.6 stars (413 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Jasper County, the unemployment rate is 3.4%, with 19,135 individuals employed out of a labor force of 19,812.
- Unemployment rate: 3.4% as of December 2025.
- Employed: 19,135.
- Labor force: 19,812.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.