Howard County Real Estate and Livability Trends
Howard County, Iowa provides a dynamic economic landscape marked by notable financial shifts. From 2013 to 2021, average taxable incomes surged from $49,471.52 to $67,510.20, suggesting economic growth alongside challenges in maintaining stable income levels. Real estate trends show median home values climbing from $94,600 in 2015 to $125,100 in 2022, positioning it as a value-driven market... Read more
Howard County Market Trends
Howard County, Iowa saw its median home values rise from $94,600 in 2015 to $125,100 in 2022, trailing behind both state and national trends, potentially signaling its status as a value-driven market. Residential energy tax credits have varied significantly, jumping to an average of $2,466.67 in 2019 and showing other peaks and troughs, perhaps reflecting policy shifts or changes in energy... Read more
Median Value of Occupied Housing Units in Howard County, Iowa Over the Last 8 Years
Over the past eight years, Howard County, Iowa, saw its median home values climb from $94,600 in 2015 to $125,100 in 2022. This growth, while substantial, lagged behind both state and national trends. For context, Iowa's median climbed from $129,200 to $181,600, while the national median surged from $125,500 to $179,400 in the same period. Such differentiation might indicate that Howard County remains a relatively affordable market, potentially offering compelling opportunities for those exploring real estate investments or considering relocation within Iowa.
Residential Energy Tax Credit Per Tax Return in Howard County, IA Over the Last 8 Years
Residential energy tax credits in Howard County, Iowa have shown notable fluctuation over the past eight years. Starting at an average of $680.00 in 2013, there was a substantial peak at $2,466.67 in 2019, with other highs seen in 2014 and 2017. While the last recorded value in 2021 was $1,888.89, the variations suggest possible influences from policy changes, economic conditions, or shifts in homeowner energy efficiency investments. This trend is essential for potential investors and real estate stakeholders to consider, as it may indicate the county's evolving emphasis on energy efficiency and renewable energy incentives that could impact property values and insurance considerations.
Average Real Estate Taxes Per Tax Return in Howard County, IA Over the Last 10 Years
Howard County, Iowa has experienced a noticeable increase in average real estate taxes per tax return over the past decade. From $2,110.00 in 2012 to a peak of $3,183.33 in 2020, taxes have generally trended upward with a few dips, notably in 2019 and 2021. This steady climb may indicate rising property values or increased tax levies, both of which could be significant for prospective investors, real estate agents, and potential homebuyers. Evaluating these trends is crucial for assessing long-term costs and making informed decisions about property investments in this area.
Percentage of Farm Returns in Howard County, IA Over the Last 10 Years
Over the past decade, farm tax returns in Howard County, Iowa have typically fluctuated around 16%. In 2016, there was a slight spike to roughly 17.00%, while other years hovered slightly lower. This consistency might suggest stable agricultural activity in the region. For investors and potential residents, these trends could imply a resilient local farm economy, key for those interested in agricultural investments or rural property development.
Number of Mortgages by Occupancy Type in Howard County, IA Over the Last 5 Years in Howard County
Between 2018 and 2022, Howard County, Iowa saw varying numbers in mortgages, with principal residences consistently dominating the landscape. Notably, the spike in mortgages for primary homes in 2021 suggests a strong appeal for residencies during this peak year, likely influenced by broader economic factors or housing market conditions. Investment properties and second residences stayed relatively stable but much lower in volume, hinting at either less speculative interest or more substantial barriers to investment property acquisition in the area. For prospective investors, understanding these trends could be crucial in gauging market viability, while real estate agents and appraisers might see this as a signal of shifting demand patterns. Insurance agents and builders should also note how the low activity in second homes could impact future service requirements or construction needs.
Economic Outlook
Howard County, Iowa has experienced significant fluctuations in average taxable income per tax return, with a notable increase from $49,471.52 in 2013 to $67,510.20 in 2021. Similarly, average state and local income taxes per return peaked at $9,340.00 in 2019, despite variable trends. Average tax liabilities also showed a general upward trend, spiking to $9,549.86 in 2021. These patterns suggest a dynamic economic environment that could imply both growth opportunities and challenges for... Read more
Average Taxable Income per Tax Return in Howard County, IA over the last 9 years
Howard County, Iowa has seen considerable fluctuation in average taxable income per tax return over the last nine years. While it started at roughly $49,471.52 in 2013 and experienced some dips and rises, a notable increase occurred in 2018 with an average taxable income of $55,004.46, followed by an even more dramatic spike to $67,510.20 in 2021. These trends might suggest a varying economic climate but also offer a glimpse into potential growth opportunities for investors and new residents eyeing stability and upward mobility in incomes.
Average State and Local Income Taxes Per Tax Return in Howard County, IA Over the Last 10 Years
Howard County, Iowa has seen significant fluctuations in average state and local income taxes per return over the past decade, with peaks in 2019 reaching $9340.00. These variations suggest a dynamic economic environment, potentially influenced by changes in local economic policies or demographic shifts. For those considering investments, relocating, or building property here, understanding these tax trends is crucial for financial planning and foreseeing the county's economic trajectory. The highest peak in 2019 followed by a decrease points to variable but overall relatively high tax burdens compared to earlier years, which might impact disposable income and cost of living evaluations.
Average Total Tax Liability Per Tax Return in Howard County, IA Over the Last 10 Years
Over the last decade, Howard County, Iowa has seen fluctuating average tax liabilities per return, ranging from a low of $6,137.87 in 2019 to a high of $9,549.86 in 2021. Despite some dips, there has been a general upward trend, particularly noticeable in the sharp increase in 2021. This could reflect economic growth or changes in tax policy, making it a potentially interesting period for investors or those considering moving to the area.
Cost of Living in Howard County
| Family Size | Housing | Food | Heath Care | Child Care | Taxes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 adults 4 children | $1,045 | $1,448 | $2,164 | $1,018 | $1,339 |
| 1 adult 4 children | $1,045 | $1,182 | $1,657 | $1,018 | $1,473 |
| 2 adults 3 children | $1,045 | $1,183 | $1,877 | $1,018 | $1,089 |
| 1 adult 3 children | $1,045 | $966 | $1,370 | $1,018 | $1,193 |
| 2 adults 2 children | $795 | $968 | $1,589 | $888 | $926 |
| 1 adult 2 children | $795 | $723 | $1,082 | $888 | $883 |
| 2 adults 1 child | $795 | $765 | $1,302 | $465 | $842 |
| 1 adult 1 child | $795 | $494 | $795 | $465 | $692 |
| 2 adults | $704 | $615 | $1,014 | $0 | $705 |
| 1 adult | $581 | $335 | $507 | $0 | $569 |
Safety trends & Data
In Howard County, Iowa, property crime trends have shown promising improvement over the last five years. Burglary rates notably dropped from 9.00 arrests in 2018 to just 1.00 by 2020, while larceny-theft and vandalism incidents peaked in 2018 but declined significantly afterward. The reduction in fraud and vandalism by 2022 could indicate an enhancement in community safety, which might appeal to investors, potential residents, and professionals in the real estate and insurance sectors,... Read more
Property Crime Trends in Howard County, IA Over the Last 5 Years
Property crime in Howard County, Iowa has seen notable fluctuations over the last five years. Burglary rates significantly dropped from 9.00 arrests in 2018 to just 1.00 by 2020. Larceny-theft and vandalism incidents peaked in 2018 but saw a substantial decline in subsequent years. Fraud and vandalism were high concerns in 2018 but decreased by 2022. Investors, potential residents, and professionals in the real estate and insurance industries might find these trends encouraging, indicating a possible enhancement in community safety and value.
Demographics
Howard County, Iowa, shows negligible gender disparity with a slight edge to females among its adult population. Educational attainment skews heavily towards high school graduates, but a smaller significant portion holds bachelor's degrees or higher, possibly pointing to an economically active population focusing on vocational and skilled trades. The age distribution suggests a balanced mix of youth, working-age adults, and an aging population, each group almost equally represented. Racial... Read more
Race Distribution in Howard County, Iowa (2022)
Educational Attainment in Howard County, Iowa (2022)
Age Distribution in Howard County, Iowa
Citizen Population in Howard County, Iowa (2022)
Political Trends & Data
Howard County, Iowa, shows a strong Republican preference in the 2020 Presidential Election, with the GOP securing around 63% of the vote. Democrats, while significant, trailed behind at approximately 36%. Minor parties such as the Libertarians and Greens had minimal impact, barely surpassing 0.4% each. This voting pattern indicates a solid Republican base, with Democrats maintaining a notable minority... Read more
Percentage of Votes in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election by Party
Howard County, Iowa, trends slightly Republican, with approximately 63% of the vote leaning towards the GOP in the 2020 Presidential Election. Democrats captured around 36% of the electorate, revealing a notable, albeit smaller, base of support. Minor parties like the Libertarians and Greens garnered minimal attention, each barely surpassing the 0.4% mark. The distribution suggests a predominantly Republican preference among voters, with Democrats holding a considerable but not dominant position.
63.19% of voters voted for the Republican party in the 2020 Presidential Election
35.74% of voters voted for the Democrat party in the 2020 Presidential Election
0.46% of voters voted for the Livertarian party in the 2020 Presidential Election
0.20% of voters voted for the Green party in the 2020 Presidential Election
0.40% of voters voted for the Other party in the 2020 Presidential Election
School Data
Howard County, Iowa has experienced fluctuating student-to-teacher ratios over the past decade, with recent years like 2020 and 2022 seeing ratios slightly above the national average of 14 students per teacher. These fluctuations could influence local investment decisions, as they may suggest variability in educational quality and resource allocation. Potential movers might perceive these dynamics as impacting the value of local schools, which could, in turn, affect property values. Real estate... Read more
Student-to-teacher ratio in Howard County, Iowa over the last 10 years
Howard County, Iowa has seen fluctuating student-to-teacher ratios over the past decade, dipping as low as 12 in some years while exceeding 15 in others. Notably, recent years like 2020 and 2022 saw ratios slightly above the national average of 14 students per teacher, while the current year's ratio is closer to the average. These changes may impact investment decisions, as fluctuating ratios could suggest variability in educational quality and resource allocation. For those looking to move in, these dynamics might influence the perceived value of local schools. Real estate agents and appraisers might find that such data affects property values, while insurance agents could consider these trends when assessing risk factors related to local demographics.
