Rock Rapids City Demographics

Rock Rapids, located in Lyon County, Iowa, has a population of approximately 2,600 residents. The median age is about 42 years, indicating a balanced mix of age groups. Gender distribution is nearly even, with 50.3% female and 49.7% male. The city is predominantly White (over 95%), with small minorities of Hispanic or Latino (around 3%), Asian, and African American residents (each less than 1%). Rock Rapids maintains a stable, family-oriented community profile.

Rock Rapids City Housing

Rock Rapids, Lyon County, IA, has a homeownership rate of about 80%, with a median home value near $135,000 and median rent around $750. Most residences are single-family homes, with a mix of historic houses and newer builds. Property values have risen modestly by roughly 3% annually over the past five years. Key neighborhoods include areas near Island Park and the downtown core. Property tax rates average 1.2%, keeping taxes on a $135,000 home about $1,620 per year. Rental vacancy rates are low, reflecting housing demand in this small, community-focused city.

Education in Rock Rapids City

Rock Rapids, Lyon County, IA, offers educational opportunities through Central Lyon Community School District, featuring one elementary, one middle, and one high school. The high school graduation rate is approximately 96%, and 22% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School environment scores average 7/10, reflecting strong school safety and supportive staff. Educational programs include Advanced Placement and vocational courses, and adult education classes are available through regional community colleges. There are no colleges in the city, but higher education opportunities are accessible nearby.

Transportation in Rock Rapids City

Rock Rapids, Lyon County, IA, relies heavily on personal vehicles, with 91% of commuters driving alone and only about 6% carpooling, while public transit usage is negligible (<1%). The average commute time is around 15 minutes, notably shorter than the national average. The city is served by U.S. Highway 75 and State Highway 9, supporting local transportation infrastructure. Nearly 95% of households own at least one vehicle. Major employment hubs include healthcare, manufacturing, and education within and around the city limits, contributing to the predominantly intra-county commuting patterns.

Rock Rapids City Healthcare

Rock Rapids, Lyon County, IA (population ~2,600), is served primarily by the Avera Merrill Pioneer Hospital, a 25-bed critical access facility, and the Rock Rapids Health Centre Clinic. Healthcare access is moderate, with about 94% of Lyon County residents insured (2021), mostly via employer plans and Medicare. The patient demographic skews older, with 19% over age 65. Common health issues include hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease. Healthcare staffing includes family physicians, nurse practitioners, and visiting specialists. Limited local services may necessitate travel to Sioux Falls, SD, for advanced care.

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