What to know when moving to Sumner, IA
Sumner at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community with 20% renters and a median household income of $63,429.
- The Major Draw:
- Affordable housing with a median gross rent of $839.
- The Reality Check:
- Zero public transit usage means it's a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Plan for around 128 rainy days per year, so consider investing in rain gear.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
In Sumner, 21.4% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher, indicating a moderately educated population. With a median household income of $63,429, the area reflects a solid economic standing relative to its affordable housing market. The renter population stands at 20%, suggesting a mix of ownership and rental opportunities.
Probably not your spot if you rely on public transportation, as the area has a 0% public transit commute rate.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $839, making it accessible compared to national averages.
- Median owner-occupied home value is $156,300, indicating affordable homeownership options.
- The poverty rate stands at 9.3%, reflecting a relatively stable economic community.
- Only 20% of residents are renters, showcasing a strong homeownership presence.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Iowa's crime rates show a generally safe environment, with property crime at an annual rate of 1,201.8 per 100,000 residents, which is 22.3% lower than the national average. Violent crime rates are also below the national average, at 236.6 per 100,000, which is 27.3% lower than the national rate.
- Violent crime: 236.6 per 100k vs. national 325.3, down 20% from 2022.
- Property crime: 1,201.8 per 100k vs. national 1,546.9, down 17.3% from 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rates have decreased by 21.2% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Iowa).
Weather & Getting Outside
Bremer County experiences approximately 32 rainy days annually, contributing to a total precipitation of about 2.6 inches each year. Snowfall is minimal, with about 1.4 inches and just 3 snow days per year, making it a pretty mild climate.
- Lights in the Park: 4.9 stars, 95 reviews.
- Split Rock County Park: 4.5 stars, 44 reviews.
- City Park: 4.7 stars, 29 reviews.
- Wapsipinicon River Water Trail Access #210: 5 stars, 2 reviews.
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Bremer County, the unemployment rate is currently 3.0%, with a labor force of 13,582. The county supports 13,169 employed residents, which reflects a stable job market.
- Unemployment rate: 3.0% as of December 2025.
- Employed: 13,169.
- Labor force: 13,582.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.