Palo Alto County Real Estate and Livability Trends
In Palo Alto County, Iowa, median home values climbed from $85,300 in 2015 to $117,000 in 2022, showcasing affordability compared to the statewide median of $181,600. This affordability alongside rising property taxes, from $2,148.05 in 2012 to $3,900.00 in 2021, may indicate increasing property values. Steady farm tax return percentages around 13% to 14% suggest a resilient agricultural sector,... Read more
Palo Alto County Market Trends
Palo Alto County, Iowa's housing market has experienced steady growth, with median home values climbing from $85,300 in 2015 to $117,000 in 2022. This suggests affordability compared to Iowa's state median of $181,600, making it attractive for investors and homebuyers. Real estate taxes have significantly increased, from $2,148.05 in 2012 to $3,900.00 in 2021, highlighting potential rising... Read more
Median Value of Occupied Housing Units in Palo Alto County, Iowa Over the Last 8 Years
Palo Alto County, Iowa's housing market has seen steady growth over the last 8 years, with median home values rising from $85,300 in 2015 to $117,000 in 2022. This increase aligns with broader trends but remains consistently lower than both Iowa's state median, which hit $181,600 in 2022, and the national median of $179,400. For potential investors or homebuyers, this suggests that Palo Alto County may offer more affordable opportunities compared to the state and national averages, while still experiencing solid appreciation.
Residential Energy Tax Credit Per Tax Return in Palo Alto County, IA Over the Last 8 Years
Over the last eight years, the average residential energy tax credit per tax return in Palo Alto County, Iowa has shown significant fluctuations. Starting at $207.69 in 2013, it peaked at $760.00 in 2020, likely influenced by federal or state incentives and changing energy costs. This volatility could indicate opportunities for investors and real estate agents to emphasize green energy improvements, while insurance agents may need to consider these trends when assessing property risks and premiums.
Average Real Estate Taxes Per Tax Return in Palo Alto County, IA Over the Last 10 Years
Palo Alto County in Iowa has seen a steady climb in average real estate taxes per tax return over the past decade. Starting at $2,148.05 in 2012, these taxes have risen dramatically, reaching $3,900.00 by 2021. Particularly notable are the jumps from $2,525.00 in 2016 to $2,867.53 in 2017 and from $3,255.56 in 2019 to $3,700.00 in 2020. This trend might be indicative of increasing property values or changes in tax assessments, factors critical for potential investors, home buyers, real estate agents, and financial planners.
Percentage of Farm Returns in Palo Alto County, IA Over the Last 10 Years
Palo Alto County, Iowa, has seen a relatively stable percentage of farm tax returns over the last decade, hovering around 13% to 14%. There have been minor fluctuations, with the highest percentage appearing in 2015 at about 13.79% and the lowest in 2016 at roughly 12.74%. For those looking to invest or move to the area, this stability in farm tax returns could suggest a resilient agricultural sector, important for decisions related to property investments or business opportunities that rely on local farming.
Number of Mortgages by Occupancy Type in Palo Alto County, IA Over the Last 5 Years in Palo Alto County
Palo Alto County, Iowa has seen a range of trends in mortgage counts over the last five years, with principal residences consistently leading the way, especially peaking at 307 in 2021 and reflecting varying socio-economic dynamics. Changes in occupancy type, such as the reduced numbers of investment properties to just 4 in 2020, can imply shifts in market stability, investor confidence, or community growth patterns. Understanding these fluctuations is crucial for investors assessing rental demand, realtors predicting market trends, and appraisers as it affects property valuations. The relatively small but steady presence of second residences also suggests a niche but stable market for temporary or vacation homes, potentially hinting at lifestyle preferences or demographic shifts.
Economic Outlook
In Palo Alto County, Iowa, the average taxable income has shown a fluctuating but generally rising trend, with a significant climb from $50,304.29 in 2017 to $69,350.74 in 2021. This upward trend suggests potential economic resilience and growth, making the area appealing for investors and developers. Meanwhile, average state and local income taxes have remained relatively stable, averaging around $7,128.00, offering a predictable environment for financial planning. Fluctuations in total tax... Read more
Average Taxable Income per Tax Return in Palo Alto County, IA over the last 9 years
In Palo Alto County, Iowa, the average taxable income per tax return has shown a fluctuating yet generally rising trend over the past nine years. After a dip to $50,304.29 in 2017, there has been a notable increase, reaching $69,350.74 in 2021. This upward trend could make the area more appealing for investors, property developers, and those considering relocation, suggesting potential economic resilience and growth.
Average State and Local Income Taxes Per Tax Return in Palo Alto County, IA Over the Last 10 Years
Palo Alto County, Iowa has seen fluctuations in average state and local income taxes per tax return over the last decade, ranging from $6,700.00 in 2018 to a high of $7,464.00 in 2013. Despite these variations, taxes have remained relatively stable, averaging around $7,128.00. For those considering investing or relocating to Palo Alto County, this stability in tax obligations can offer a predictable economic environment, making financial planning more manageable. The steady taxes also reflect a consistent local government approach, which can reassure potential property developers and businesses considering setting up operations in the area.
Average Total Tax Liability Per Tax Return in Palo Alto County, IA Over the Last 10 Years
Over the past decade, Palo Alto County, Iowa has experienced fluctuations in average total tax liability per tax return, ranging from $6,984.43 in 2017 to $9,437.65 in 2021. Notable spikes and dips could reflect changes in local economic conditions, federal tax policies, or variations in population demographics. The recent peak in 2021 suggests a potential shift in economic activity or income levels within the county. This data is insightful for investors, potential residents, and property developers aiming to understand the fiscal landscape and economic health of the area.
Cost of Living in Palo Alto County
| Family Size | Housing | Food | Heath Care | Child Care | Taxes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 adults 4 children | $973 | $1,335 | $2,105 | $1,076 | $1,225 |
| 1 adult 4 children | $973 | $1,090 | $1,612 | $1,076 | $1,356 |
| 2 adults 3 children | $973 | $1,091 | $1,826 | $1,076 | $995 |
| 1 adult 3 children | $973 | $890 | $1,332 | $1,076 | $1,094 |
| 2 adults 2 children | $795 | $893 | $1,546 | $938 | $887 |
| 1 adult 2 children | $795 | $667 | $1,053 | $938 | $845 |
| 2 adults 1 child | $795 | $706 | $1,267 | $491 | $806 |
| 1 adult 1 child | $795 | $456 | $773 | $491 | $668 |
| 2 adults | $604 | $567 | $987 | $0 | $637 |
| 1 adult | $581 | $309 | $494 | $0 | $550 |
Safety trends & Data
Palo Alto County, Iowa has experienced notable fluctuations in property crime over the last five years. Larceny-theft surged in 2019 with 11 reported cases, while vandalism also spiked to 14 incidents the same year. Both categories saw significant decreases by 2022. Interestingly, burglary incidents, generally lower, peaked in 2021 with five occurrences. Sporadic instances of fraud and motor vehicle theft suggest a smaller but persistent issue. These shifting crime patterns may be important for... Read more
Property Crime Trends in Palo Alto County, IA Over the Last 5 Years
Palo Alto County, Iowa has seen notable variations in property crime over the past five years. Larceny-theft incidents surged in 2019 with 11 reported cases, significantly higher than any other year. Vandalism also spiked the same year, recording 14 cases. However, both categories saw a notable decrease by 2022. Burglary incidents, while generally lower, peaked in 2021 with five occurrences. The data highlights sporadic instances of fraud and motor vehicle theft, suggesting a smaller but persistent issue in the area. These trends could indicate shifting crime patterns that potential investors, real estate agents, and insurance professionals should consider when evaluating the area.
Demographics
Palo Alto County, Iowa, shows an almost even gender split among its adult population, suggesting balanced community dynamics. Educational attainment figures reveal that high school graduates and residents with some college education make up a significant portion of the population, with a notable number having attained an associate or bachelor's degree, which could be shaping the local economy and workforce skill levels. The age distribution highlights a relatively balanced spread across various... Read more
Race Distribution in Palo Alto County, Iowa (2022)
Educational Attainment in Palo Alto County, Iowa (2022)
Age Distribution in Palo Alto County, Iowa
Citizen Population in Palo Alto County, Iowa (2022)
Political Trends & Data
Palo Alto County, Iowa, leans heavily Republican, as evidenced by about 68% of the vote potentially favoring the GOP in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election. Democrats garnered around 31%, showcasing a significant, albeit smaller, base of support. Minor parties barely made a dent with less than 2%, pointing to a largely two-party system. These dynamics could offer important context for understanding local political strategies and voter... Read more
Percentage of Votes in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election by Party
In Palo Alto County, Iowa, the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election results suggest a strong Republican presence, with approximately 68% of the vote potentially favoring the GOP. Democrats, while significantly behind, still managed to gather around 31% of the votes, indicating a notable opposition. Libertarian and other smaller parties combined seem to have garnered minimal support, collectively accounting for less than 2% of the total vote. These figures could provide insights into the county's political landscape, hinting at a stable but potentially contested political environment.
68.13% of voters voted for the Republican party in the 2020 Presidential Election
30.64% of voters voted for the Democrat party in the 2020 Presidential Election
0.87% of voters voted for the Livertarian party in the 2020 Presidential Election
0.16% of voters voted for the Green party in the 2020 Presidential Election
0.20% of voters voted for the Other party in the 2020 Presidential Election
School Data
Palo Alto County, Iowa, has experienced fluctuating student-to-teacher ratios over the past decade, peaking at just over fifteen in 2020 and recently falling to around fourteen. While these figures sometimes exceed the national average of fourteen students per teacher, they offer insights into educational quality and class sizes. This information could influence potential investors, real estate agents, and families assessing the local community’s appeal and... Read more
Student-to-teacher ratio in Palo Alto County, Iowa over the last 10 years
Palo Alto County, Iowa has seen its student-to-teacher ratio fluctuate over the past decade, peaking at just over fifteen in 2020 and falling to around fourteen in recent years. When compared to the national average of fourteen students per teacher, some years, such as 2019 through 2022, show the county experiencing slightly higher ratios. These changes could be vital for potential investors, real estate agents, and families considering moving to the area, as they might impact perceived educational quality and class sizes — factors often closely examined when evaluating local communities.
