Decorah, IA

Iowa · Winneshiek County

Decorah is a small city in Iowa with a population of 7,597. Residents earn $62,177 per year, which is 17% below the national average.

3.6 /5.0

B+ Good

7,597 Population 1,049/sq mi density

$62,177 Median Income $34,046 per capita

$234,600 Home Value $298,078 Zillow

$788 Median Rent 26.9% income on rent

49°F Avg Temperature 260 sunny days/yr

120 Violent Crime/100K 983 property/100K

B+

Overall

3.6 / 5.0

Good overall score based on economy, affordability, safety and education

Economy

4.2 / 5.0

$62,177 median income, 2.5% unemployment

A+

Affordability

4.6 / 5.0

$234,600 home value, $788/mo rent

Safety

1.0 / 5.0

120 violent crimes/100K (69% below avg)

A+

Education

4.7 / 5.0

46.1% bachelor's degree or higher

Discover Decorah, IA

Explore over 40 sections covering people, economy, housing, health, crime, climate, community, costs, trends, schools, colleges, hospitals, treatment centers, industries, museums, libraries, breweries, farmers markets, grocery stores, pharmacies, campgrounds, parks, trails, stadiums, ski resorts, daycare centers, nursing homes, churches, fire stations, cell towers, bridges, power plants, EV stations, prisons, radio stations, airports, police stations, post offices, Amtrak stations, superfund sites, UNESCO sites, and more.
Use the tabs and dropdown menus below to navigate every data point we track for this city.

Full City Profile

Median Income $62,177

17% lower than US avg

Home Value $234,600

17% lower than US avg

Violent Crime 120/100K

69% lower than US avg

Bachelor's+ 46.1%

37% higher than US avg

Median Rent $788

32% lower than US avg

Obesity Rate 35.9%

12% higher than US avg

Unemployment 2.5%

31% lower than US avg

Poverty Rate 4.5%

64% lower than US avg

How Decorah Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)

People

Population7,597

Median Age36.5 yrs

Density1,049/mi²

Male / Female47% / 53%

Largest GroupWhite 94%

Veterans7.6%

Economy

Median Income$62,177

Per Capita$34,046

Unemployment2.5%

Poverty4.5%

County GDP$1,354M

Commute12 min

Housing

A+

Home Value$234,600

Rent$788

Ownership64.7%

Zillow$298,078

Housing Units3,134

Rent Burden26.9%

Crime

Violent120/100K

Property983/100K

Murder0.0/100K

Assault66/100K

Burglary27/100K

Health

Obesity35.9%

Uninsured5.7%

Smoking12.9%

Depression20.9%

Heart Disease4.8%

Climate

Avg Temp49°F (9°C)

AQI43 (Good)

Rain37.6 in/yr

Sunny Days260/yr

Elevation869 ft (265 m)

Education

A+

Bachelor's+46.1%

High School+96.2%

Graduate+19.3%

School Score6.70

Community

2024 VoteR 54% / D 45%

Commute12 min

Broadband87.9%

EV Stations8

Libraries5

Is Decorah a Good Place to Live?

Based on current data, Decorah receives an overall livability score of 3.6 out of 5.0, earning a grade of B+. Key strengths include low unemployment, low crime rates, a highly educated population, affordable housing. Decorah offers a solid quality of life with a good balance of affordability, safety, and opportunity.

Economy & Jobs

The median household income in Decorah is $62,177, 17% below the national average of $75,149. The job market is very strong with unemployment at just 2.5%. Only 4.5% of residents live below the poverty line, well below the national rate of 12.4%. Workers commute an average of 12 minutes, shorter than most U.S. cities.

Cost of Living & Housing

The median home value in Decorah is $234,600, 17% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $788 per month, below the national average / a plus for affordability. A price-to-income ratio of 3.8x indicates a reasonably affordable housing market.

Safety & Crime

Decorah is a very safe community with a violent crime rate of 120 per 100,000 residents / well below the national average of 380. Property crime occurs at a rate of 983 per 100,000, 50% below the national average.

Education

Educational attainment is solid, with 46.1% holding a bachelor's degree or higher, near the national average. 96.2% have completed high school. Local schools score 6.7/10 in standardized testing, reflecting strong academic performance.

Climate & Weather

Decorah experiences four distinct seasons with an average temperature of 49°F. Winters average 19°F in January while summers reach 74°F in July. With 260 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 37.6 inches, including 37.5 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 43.

Decorah has a population of 7,597 with a density of 1,049 people per square mile, spread across 7.0 square miles. The median age is 36.5 years, 6% younger than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 52.9% female and 47.1% male. The city is predominantly White (94.1%). English is the primary language spoken at home by 95.5% of residents. 7.6% of the population are veterans, above the national rate of 6.0%. 10.1% of residents have a disability (below the 13.0% national average). 98.1% have health insurance coverage.

Population

7,597

Total Population

1,049

People / sq mi

36.5yrs

Median Age

6% below US avg

7.0mi²

Land Area

Gender Distribution

Male 47.1%

Female 52.9%

Race & Ethnicity

Decorah vs U.S. Average

Language Spoken at Home

English Only 95.5%

22% above US avg

Spanish 4.5%

66% below US avg

Social Characteristics

Decorah vs U.S. Average

The median household income in Decorah is $62,177, which is 17% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $34,046 (below the $39,052 national figure). The average weekly wage is $989, 31% lower than the U.S. average. The unemployment rate is 2.5% (below the 3.6% US average). 4.5% of residents live below the poverty line, lower than the national rate of 12.4%. The area has 767 business establishments, including 60 restaurants. The cost of living index is 87.8, below the national baseline of 100 / offering relatively affordable living. Workers commute an average of 12 minutes (shorter than the 28-minute US average). 9.7% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).

Income: Decorah vs U.S.

Commute Mode

Income

Median HH Income	$62,177
	17% below US avg
Per Capita Income	$34,046
Avg Weekly Wage	$989
IRS Avg AGI	$79,419
Gini Index	0.440 (0=equal, 1=unequal)

Employment & Poverty

Unemployment	2.5%
	31% below US avg
Poverty Rate	4.5%
	64% below US avg
Establishments (County)	767
County GDP	$1,354M

Business (County)

Restaurants	60
Healthcare	59
Retail	96
Manufacturing	30

Tax & Cost of Living

Property Tax (IRS)	$4,702
	34% above US avg
Cost of Living	87.80 (100=avg)
Effective Tax Rate	2.00%

Commute & Transportation

Commute Time	12.4 min
Drive Alone	58.1%
Public Transit	0.4%
Work from Home	9.7%

Walkability

The median home value in Decorah is $234,600, 17% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $298,078, higher than the Census estimate. Monthly rent averages $788 (32% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $788 for a one-bedroom to $989 for a two-bedroom apartment. 64.7% of housing units are owner-occupied. There are 3,134 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1964. The average annual property tax is $4,702 (higher than the $3,500 national average). 26.9% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing. The home price-to-income ratio is 3.8x.

Home Value Sources

Ownership Split

Home Values

Census Median	$234,600
	17% below US avg
Zillow ZHVI	$298,078

Real Estate Market (Redfin)

Rental Costs

Census Median Rent	$788
	32% below US avg
Rent Burden	26.9%

HUD Fair Market Rent

Studio	$738
1 Bedroom	$788
2 Bedrooms	$989
3 Bedrooms	$1,282
4 Bedrooms	$1,420

Ownership & Property

Homeownership	64.7%
Owner-Occupied	64.7%
Renter-Occupied	35.3%
Housing Units	3,134
Median Year Built	1964

Property Tax

Avg Tax (IRS)	$4,702
	34% above US avg
Effective Rate	2.00%

In Decorah, 35.9% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 8.3% have diabetes (below the 10.5% national rate). Heart disease affects 4.8% of residents, below the national average. 28.2% have high blood pressure. 12.9% are current smokers. 22.4% report binge drinking. 20.7% are physically inactive, below the national average. 20.9% report depression. 16.6% experience frequent mental distress. 5.7% of residents lack health insurance (below the 8.6% national rate). The primary care physician ratio is 1:995. The dentist ratio is 1:1,536. 74.3% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The food environment index is 9.1 out of 10.

Health Metrics: Decorah vs U.S. Average (%)

Chronic Conditions

Obesity	35.9%
	12% above US avg
Diabetes	8.3%
Heart Disease	4.8%
High Blood Pressure	28.2%
Asthma	10.0%
COPD	5.2%
Cancer	7.6%
Stroke	2.5%

Behaviors & Mental Health

Smoking	12.9%
	8% below US avg
Binge Drinking	22.4%
Physical Inactivity	20.7%
Depression	20.9%
Mental Distress	16.6%
Physical Distress	10.8%
Short Sleep	29.0%

Healthcare Access

Insurance Rate	98.1%
Uninsured	5.7%
	34% below US avg
Primary Care	1:995
Dentists	1:1,536
Mental Health	1:354
Checkup Rate	76.5%
Dental Visits	70.5%
Premature Death	4,480/100K

Food & Exercise

Food Environment	9.1/10
Exercise Access	74.3%
Healthcare Facilities	59

Decorah has a violent crime rate of 120 per 100,000 residents, 69% below the national average of 380. This breaks down to aggravated assault at 66.4 per 100,000, robbery at 0.0, rape at 53.1. The murder rate is 0.0 per 100,000 (below the national rate of 6.3). Property crime stands at 983 per 100,000, 50% below the U.S. average. This includes larceny/theft at 930, burglary at 27, vehicle theft at 27 per 100,000 residents. The county recorded 2 fatal traffic crashes. Overall, Decorah receives a safety grade of F.

Crime Rates: Decorah vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)

Violent Crime

Total Violent	119.5/100K
	69% below US avg
Murder	0.0/100K
	100% below US avg
Rape	53.1/100K
Robbery	0.0/100K
Assault	66.4/100K

Property Crime

Total Property	982.9/100K
	50% below US avg
Burglary	26.6/100K
Theft	929.7/100K
Vehicle Theft	26.6/100K
Arson	13.3/100K

Traffic Safety

Fatal Crashes (County/yr)	2
Traffic Accidents	15
Avg Accident Severity	3.3 / 4.0

Safety Score

Safety Grade	F
Safety Score	1.0 / 5.0

View full crime details →

Decorah experiences four distinct seasons with an average annual temperature of 49°F (9°C). Winters average 19°F in January while summers reach 74°F in July. The area gets 260 sunny days per year, above the national average. Annual precipitation totals 37.6 inches. The area receives 37.5 inches of snow annually, a moderate snowfall amount. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 43. The city sits at an elevation of 869 feet.

Temperature

19°F Jan (-7°C) 74°F Jul (23°C)

Annual Average	48.5°F
	10% below US avg
January Average	19°F (-7°C)
July Average	74°F (23°C)
Sunny Days	260 days/yr

Geography

Elevation	869 ft (265 m)
Area	7.0 sq mi (18.2 km²)
Population Density	1,049/sq mi
Coordinates	43.3016°N, 91.7848°W
Timezone	America/Chicago
County	Winneshiek County County
Nearest Airport	Northeast Iowa Regional (CCY) 45 miles away

Precipitation & Snow

Annual Rainfall 37.6"

1% below US avg

Snowfall 37.5"

Wettest Month (Jun) 4.29"

Driest Month (Jan) 0.83"

Air Quality

AQI Median	43.0
Rating	Good

Natural Hazard Risk

Overall Risk	Very Low
Risk Score	36.2 / 100
Social Vulnerability	12.2 / 100
Community Resilience	91.6 / 100

Hazard Breakdown

Tornado	Relatively Low
Hurricane	Very Low
Earthquake	Very Low
Wildfire	Very Low
Flood	Relatively Low
Hail	Relatively Moderate
Strong Wind	Relatively Low
Heat Wave	Very Low
Winter Weather	Relatively Low
Lightning	Very Low
Ice Storm	Relatively Low
Drought	Relatively Moderate
Cold Wave	Relatively Low
Landslide	Relatively Low

Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.20 (Dec 2025)

Tornado History

451 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950. Strongest: EF5. Total: 10 fatalities, 366 injuries.

Date	Rating	Distance	Fatalities
May 15, 1968	EF5	71 km	5
Jul 12, 1971	EF4	55 km	0
May 5, 1965	EF4	84 km	0
Sep 16, 1962	EF4	92 km	0
May 10, 1953	EF4	52 km	2
Aug 7, 2021	EF3	88 km	0
May 25, 2008	EF3	80 km	0
Jun 11, 2004	EF3	63 km	0
Jul 27, 1995	EF3	79 km	0
Jul 19, 1994	EF3	38 km	0
May 30, 1985	EF3	54 km	2
Jun 5, 1980	EF3	61 km	0
Jun 24, 1971	EF3	26 km	1
May 5, 1965	EF3	29 km	0
Sep 3, 1964	EF3	94 km	0
May 7, 1964	EF3	79 km	0
May 26, 1959	EF3	83 km	0
May 10, 1953	EF3	54 km	0
Apr 12, 2022	EF2	76 km	0
Jul 14, 2021	EF2	96 km	0

Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950–2024)

Wildfire History

1 wildfire (100+ acres) within 100 km. Largest: BEAVER CUTOFF (982 ac, 2007).

Year	Name	Acres	Distance
2007	BEAVER CUTOFF	982	97 km

Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)

Monthly Weather

Month	Avg Temperature	Precipitation	Summary
January	19°F (-7°C)	0.8 in	Coldest, Driest
February	21°F (-6°C)	0.9 in
March	33°F (0°C)	2.0 in
April	46°F (8°C)	3.4 in
May	58°F (15°C)	3.9 in
June	68°F (20°C)	4.3 in	Wettest
July	74°F (23°C)	4.0 in	Warmest
August	69°F (21°C)	4.2 in
September	61°F (16°C)	3.8 in
October	49°F (10°C)	2.4 in
November	34°F (1°C)	1.8 in
December	20°F (-7°C)	1.3 in

Decorah has a seasonal temperature swing of 55°F / from 19°F in January to 74°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 32.8 inches, with June being the wettest month (4.3") and January the driest (0.8").

View full weather details →

Decorah is located in Winneshiek County. It is classified as Nonmetro / Urban 2.5K–20K, a smaller urban community. 46.1% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher, 37% above the national average of 33.7%. 96.2% have completed high school. 19.3% hold a graduate or professional degree (above the 13.1% national rate). Area schools have an average test score of 6.7 out of 10. In the 2024 presidential election, the county voted Republican with 53.9% of the vote, a 9.3-point margin. 87.9% of households have broadband internet access. The area has 8 EV charging stations. There are 5 public libraries serving the community. 59 healthcare facilities operate in the area. 58.1% of workers drive alone to work.

2024 Presidential Election (County)

R 53.9%

D 44.6%

Winner: Republican by 9.3 points

Safety & Disasters

Fatal Crashes (County/yr)	2
Traffic Accidents	15
Avg Accident Severity	3.3 / 4.0

F Safety Grade (1.0/5.0)

Education

Bachelor's Degree+	46.1%
	37% above US avg
High School+	96.2%
Graduate Degree+	19.3%
School Test Score	6.70

A+ Education Grade (4.7/5.0)

Area & Infrastructure

RUCC Code 7	Nonmetro / Urban 2.5K–20K
Population Density	1,049/sq mi
Total Area	7.0 sq mi
County	Winneshiek County County

Services

Broadband Access	87.9%
Avg Download Speed	70.7 Mbps
Avg Upload Speed	19.8 Mbps
Max Download Speed	1,000 Mbps
EV Charging Stations	8
Alt Fuel Stations	11
Public Libraries	5
Healthcare Facilities	59
Restaurants	60
Retail Stores	96

Commute & Transportation

Avg Commute	12.4 min
Drive Alone	58.1%
Public Transit	0.4%
Work from Home	9.7%

Average costs for common services in Decorah. Prices are estimated based on regional cost of living data and may vary by provider.

Healthcare

Doctor Visit (Primary Care)	$220 ($132–$351)
Specialist Visit	$307 ($176–$483)
Urgent Care Visit	$176 ($88–$307)
Emergency Room Visit	$1,932 ($702–$4,390)
Dental Cleaning	$114 ($66–$176)
Dental Filling	$220 ($132–$351)

View all 40 services

Auto Repair

Oil Change (Conventional)	$40 ($22–$66)
Oil Change (Synthetic)	$66 ($44–$105)
Brake Pad Replacement	$263 ($132–$439)
Tire Rotation	$35 ($18–$66)
New Tires (Set of 4)	$527 ($351–$878)
Battery Replacement	$176 ($88–$307)

View all 18 services

Home Services

Plumber (Per Hour)	$88 ($53–$132)
Electrician (Per Hour)	$79 ($44–$123)
HVAC Repair	$351 ($132–$702)
HVAC System Install	$6,146 ($3,512–$10,536)
Roof Repair	$878 ($351–$1,756)
Roof Replacement	$7,902 ($4,829–$13,170)

View all 25 services

Legal

Divorce (Uncontested)	$1,317 ($439–$3,073)
Divorce (Contested)	$13,170 ($4,390–$26,340)
DUI Defense	$4,390 ($1,756–$8,780)
Bankruptcy (Chapter 7)	$1,317 ($702–$2,634)
Will Preparation	$439 ($176–$878)
Trust Preparation	$2,195 ($878–$4,390)

View all 12 services

Personal Care

Men's Haircut	$22 ($13–$40)
Women's Haircut	$48 ($26–$88)
Hair Coloring (Full)	$132 ($66–$220)
Manicure	$22 ($13–$40)
Pedicure	$35 ($22–$57)
Massage (1 Hour)	$70 ($44–$114)

View all 12 services

Food & Grocery

Gallon of Milk (per gallon)	$3.60 ($2.63–$4.83)
Dozen Eggs (per dozen)	$3.07 ($2.20–$4.39)
Loaf of Bread	$3.34 ($2.20–$4.83)
Chicken Breast (per lb)	$3.95 ($2.63–$5.71)
Ground Beef (per lb)	$4.83 ($3.51–$6.59)
Rice (per lb)	$0.88 ($0.53–$1.58)

View all 20 services

Utilities

Electricity (Monthly)	$123 ($70–$220)
Natural Gas (Monthly)	$61 ($26–$132)
Water/Sewer (Monthly)	$61 ($35–$105)
Internet (Monthly)	$61 ($35–$88)
Cell Phone Plan (Monthly)	$57 ($26–$88)
Cable TV (Monthly)	$75 ($44–$132)

View all 8 services

Transportation

Monthly Parking (Downtown)	$176 ($66–$439)
Car Insurance (Annual)	$1,756 ($1,054–$3,073)
Bus Pass (Monthly)	$61 ($26–$114)
Taxi/Uber (5-Mile Ride)	$13 ($7.02–$22)
Car Registration (Annual)	$88 ($26–$220)
Driver's License Renewal	$26 ($13–$66)

View all 8 services

Education & Childcare

Daycare (Infant, Monthly)	$1,054 ($527–$2,195)
Daycare (Toddler, Monthly)	$878 ($439–$1,756)
After-School Care (Monthly)	$351 ($176–$615)
Tutoring (Per Hour)	$44 ($22–$88)
SAT/ACT Prep Course	$878 ($351–$2,195)
Private School (K-12, Annual)	$10,975 ($4,390–$26,340)

View all 8 services

Pets

Vet Visit (Routine Checkup)	$53 ($26–$88)
Dog Vaccination (Annual)	$88 ($44–$176)
Dog Grooming	$53 ($26–$88)
Pet Boarding (Per Night)	$35 ($18–$66)
Dog Spay/Neuter	$263 ($132–$439)
Cat Spay/Neuter	$176 ($88–$351)

View all 9 services

Childcare

Center-Based (monthly)
Infant	$679
Toddler	$585
Preschool	$585
Family Childcare (monthly)
Infant	$458
Toddler	$450
Preschool	$450

Source: DOL Women's Bureau (2022)

Top Industries in Winneshiek County

Largest private-sector industries by employment (BLS QCEW 2024 data, county level).

Industry	Jobs	Establishments	Avg Annual Pay	Location Quotient
Manufacturing	1,441	33	$58,625	1.67
Retail Trade	1,313	96	$33,953	1.25
Health Care & Social Assistance	860	70	$59,473	0.57
Accommodation & Food Services	846	54	$17,632	0.89
Educational Services	628	17	$50,260	2.90
Construction	610	64	$74,168	1.11
Administrative & Waste Services	450	36	$54,879	0.73
Wholesale Trade	412	63	$69,220	1.00
Finance & Insurance	304	41	$77,143	0.71
Other Services	255	56	$37,098	0.81
Professional & Technical Services	235	67	$70,518	0.32
Information & Technology	124	17	$71,055	0.63
Arts & Entertainment	124	13	$24,917	0.70
Real Estate	28	16	$32,228	0.17
Management of Companies	20	8	$85,853	0.11

Colleges & Universities in Decorah

Institution	Type	Enrollment	Acceptance	In-State Tuition	Out-of-State
Luther College	Private Non-Profit · Bachelor's	1,637	73.3%	$50,320	$50,320

Hospitals in Decorah

Hospital	Type	CMS Rating	Emergency	Phone
WINNMED	Critical Access Hospitals	2/5	Yes	(563) 382-2911

Schools in Decorah

4 public schools (NCES 2022-23 data).

School	Level	Enrollment	Teachers	Student/Teacher
Decorah High School	High	576	37	15.6:1
Decorah Middle School	Middle	461	35	13.2:1
John Cline Elementary School	Elementary	354	27	13.1:1
Carrie Lee Elementary	Elementary	198	15	13.2:1

View full schools details →

Radio Stations near Decorah

0 stations within ~55 km.

Station	Genre	Quality

National Parks Near Decorah

18 national parks and monuments found near Decorah.

Park	Type	Fee
Backbone State Park	State Park	Free
Beaver Creek Valley State Park	State Park	Free
Carley State Park	State Park	Free
Cedar Rock	State Park	Free
Effigy Mounds National Monument	National Monument	Free
Forestville Mystery Cave State Park	State Park	Free
George Wyth State Park	State Park	Free
Great River Bluffs State Park	State Park	Free
Great River State Trail	State Park	Free
John A. Latsch State Park	State Park	Free
La Crosse River State Trail	State Park	Free
Lake Louise State Park	State Park	Free
Merrick State Park	State Park	Free
Nelson Dewey State Park	State Park	Free
Perrot State Park	State Park	Free
Pikes Peak State Park	State Park	Free
Ridgewood Area	State Park	Free
Wyalusing State Park	State Park	Free

Historical Trends — Decorah

Population and economic data over time (US Census / ACS estimates).

Population

Median Household Income

Year	Population	Median Income
2013	7,982	$47,619
2015	7,966	$50,388
2017	7,620	$55,282
2019	7,526	$62,336
2021	7,747	$55,480
2023	7,458	$62,177

Museums in Decorah

Name	Type	Address	Phone	Annual Revenue
CENTENNIAL UNION GALLERY	ART MUSEUM		5633872000	$130,058,221
CENTER FOR THE ARTS GREGERSON GALLERY	ART MUSEUM		5633872000	$130,058,221
ETHNOGRAPHIC AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL COLLECTIONS	HISTORY MUSEUM		5633871781	$130,058,221
FINE ARTS COLLECTION	ART MUSEUM		5633872000	$130,058,221
GEOLOGY COLLECTIONS	SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY MUSEUM OR PLANETARIUM		5633871781	$130,058,221
HOSLETT MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY	NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM		5633871781	$130,058,221
KRISTIN WIGLEY-FLEMING GALLERY	ART MUSEUM		5633872000	$130,058,221
PREUS LIBRARY FINE ARTS COLLECTION	ART MUSEUM		5633871166	$130,058,221
VESTERHEIM NORWEGIAN AMERICAN MUSEUM	GENERAL MUSEUM	520 WEST WATER STREET	5633829681	$2,534,233
LAURA INGALLS WILDER PARK & MUSEUM	HISTORY MUSEUM			$69,381
PORTER HOUSE MUSEUM	HISTORIC PRESERVATION		5633828465	$29,599
BILY CLOCKS MUSEUM & ANTONIN DVORAK EXHIBIT	GENERAL MUSEUM		5635623569
CANTON HISTORICAL SOCIETY	HISTORIC PRESERVATION
HESPER-MABEL AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY	HISTORIC PRESERVATION
ONEOTA HISTORIC FUTURE ALLIANCE	HISTORIC PRESERVATION
ST LUCAS HISTORICAL SOCIETY	HISTORIC PRESERVATION		5637782710
ST WENCESLAUS HERITAGE SOCIETY	GENERAL MUSEUM
WAUCOMA HISTORICAL SOCIETY	HISTORIC PRESERVATION

Libraries in Decorah

Name	Address	Annual Visits
DECORAH PUBLIC LIBRARY	202 WINNEBAGO ST	192,641
POSTVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY	235 W TILDEN ST	18,903
CALMAR PUBLIC LIBRARY	101 S WASHINGTON ST	6,897
OSSIAN PUBLIC LIBRARY	123 W MAIN ST	6,700
MABEL PUBLIC LIBRARY	110 E. NEWBURG	4,758
SPILLVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY	201 OAK ST	4,049
WAUCOMA PUBLIC LIBRARY	103 1ST AVE SW	3,200
FORT ATKINSON PUBLIC LIBRARY	302 3RD NW	3,090

Farmers Markets in Decorah

Name	Address	Season	Hours	Organic	Website
Calmar Farmers Market	Calmar Depot
Simple Living Farmers Market		04/26/2014 to 10/25/2014	Sat: 8:30 AM-11:30 PM;
Winneshiek Farmers Market	Lower Oneota Coop Parking lot	05/01/2016 to 10/31/2016	Wed: 3:00 PM-6:00 PM;Sat: 8:00 AM-11:00 AM;	Yes	Visit

Breweries in Decorah

Name	Type	Address	Phone	Website
Club 51	IA, Bars & Clubs, Restaurants, Breweries & Brew Pubs, Bars & Pubs, Postville Bars and Lounges, Rest	107 N Lawler St	5638647864
Horse Shoe The	Breweries & Brew Pubs, Bar & Grill Restaurants, recreation, food and drink	106 N Maryville St	5635623777
Keg Creek Brewing Co LLC	Glenwood Ia, Beverages, Malt Beverages, Glenwood Brewers, Glenwood Malt Beverages, Glenwood, IA	111 Sharp St
Pulpit Rock Brewing Company	Tourist Information & Attractions, Food & Drink, Amusement Places & Arcades, Banquet Halls & Recepti	207 College Dr	5633803610, 15633803610	Visit
Shooters Bar Grill	Bars, Restaurants, Breweries & Brew Pubs, Barbecue, Bar & Grills, Taverns, Bar & Grill Restaurants	108 W Main St	5635329812
Toppling Goliath Brewing CO	Tourist Attractions, Decorah, IA, Beverages, Malt Beverages, Decorah Brewers, (1)	310 College Dr		Visit

Nursing Homes in Decorah

2 nursing homes and rehabilitation centers (CMS data).

Facility	Ownership	Beds	Residents	Overall	Health	Staffing	Quality	Phone
AASE HAUGEN HOME FOUR OHIO STREET	Non profit - Corporation	99	89	5/5	—	5/5	5/5	5633823603
WELLINGTON PLACE 2479 RIVER ROAD	Non profit - Other	51	50	5/5	—	3/5	4/5	5633829691

Pharmacies in Decorah

3 pharmacies and drugstores.

Pharmacy	Address	Phone
DONLON HEALTH MART PHARMACY	201 WEST WATER STREET	563-382-2626
MEDICAP PHARMACY	702 MONTGOMERY STREET	563-382-8765
WAL-MART SUPERCENTER - 913	1798 OLD STAGE ROAD	563-382-8456

EV Charging Stations in Decorah

Name	Address	Network	Level 2	Connectors	Access
Day Spring Lane	315 W Day Spring Ln.	SHELL_RECHARGE	4	J1772	public
FAIRFIELD INN DECORAH	2041 IA-9	ChargePoint Network	2	J1772	public
LUTHER COLLEGE LIBRARY LOT	Pool St	ChargePoint Network	2	J1772	public
LUTHER COLLEGE REGENTS CENTER	700 College Dr	ChargePoint Network	2	J1772	public
State Street EV Charger	103 East Main Street	Blink Network	1	J1772	public

Cell Towers in Decorah

Address	Structure Type	Height (ft)
13496 HARDIN DRIVE	TOWER	128
Off Highway 43	TOWER	125
(Calmar) AT CALMAR EASTERN CORP. BOUNDARY, SOUTH OF U.S. HWY. 52	TOWER	84
2576 307th Ave	TOWER	60
219 W. WATER STREET	TOWER	26

Fire Stations in Decorah

Name	Address	Type	Active Firefighters	Volunteers	Phone
Decorah Fire Department	400 Claiborne DR	Mostly volunteer			563-382-3472

Power Plants Near Decorah

Name	Type	Primary Fuel	Capacity (MW)	Status
DECORAH BATTERY	BATTERIES	221118	-91.8	V
LUTHER COLLEGE WIND PROJECT	ONSHORE WIND TURBINE	221115	-91.8	OP

Bridges in Decorah

Type	Kind	Year Built	Length (ft)	Daily Traffic	Condition
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete	1969	204	14,900	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete	1969	163	8,900	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete	1987	305	8,868	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	1969	128	5,400	F
Arch (Deck)	Concrete	1963	103	4,230	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete	1963	376	4,230	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1945	244	3,880	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1963	412	3,340	F
Culvert	Concrete continuous	2013	36	2,553	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1969	253	2,310	F
Culvert	Concrete continuous	1985	28	1,856	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	2005	240	1,774	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete	2002	189	1,581	G
Slab	Concrete continuous	2021	70	1,449	G
Culvert	Concrete continuous	1958	20	1,169	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Concrete	1931	55	1,090	F
Culvert	Concrete continuous	2001	24	1,051	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete	1956	173	953	P
Culvert	Concrete continuous	2013	24	933	G
Culvert	Concrete continuous	1962	54	894	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete continuous	1983	335	830	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete	2003	155	805	G
Culvert	Concrete continuous	2016	24	805	G
Tee Beam	Prestressed concrete	1986	30	697	P
Culvert	Concrete continuous	1958	24	697	P
Culvert	Concrete continuous	1959	24	580	G
Culvert	Concrete	1960	23	541	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	2005	304	471	G
Culvert	Concrete continuous	1988	23	442	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete	1988	293	442	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete	1986	293	363	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Concrete continuous	1950	143	344	F
Culvert	Concrete	1970	22	339	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1937	297	324	P
Slab	Concrete continuous	1987	87	324	G
Slab	Concrete continuous	2008	150	323	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1969	214	309	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete	1967	300	265	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete	1976	288	265	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1985	60	207	P
Channel Beam	Concrete	1976	30	187	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	2006	125	187	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1935	191	147	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	1995	91	137	G
Slab	Concrete continuous	1995	103	137	G
Channel Beam	Concrete	1976	25	128	P
Slab	Concrete continuous	1943	91	108	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete	2001	179	78	G
Culvert	Concrete continuous	2003	24	78	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1962	44	78	P
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1900	20	70	F
Channel Beam	Concrete	1974	25	70	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	1989	88	70	G
Truss (Thru)	Steel	1900	217	70	P
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1966	30	70	F
Culvert	Concrete continuous	1995	29	70	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1900	27	59	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	1979	102	59	G
Slab	Concrete	2021	150	59	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1900	32	59	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete	1991	58	59	G
Culvert	Concrete continuous	1967	36	50	G
Box Beam (Multiple)	Steel	2013	75	49	G
Truss (Thru)	Steel	1908	154	49	P
Culvert	Concrete continuous	1967	28	49	G
Box Beam (Multiple)	Steel	1900	71	49	F
Channel Beam	Concrete	1978	20	39	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1976	26	39	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1978	23	39	F
Culvert	Concrete continuous	2011	20	39	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1957	52	39	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1900	24	39	P
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1915	25	29	P
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1900	33	29	P
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1900	41	29	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete	2019	104	25	G
Slab	Concrete continuous	2002	75	20	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1900	34	11	P
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1943	32	11	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	2003	78	11	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1978	24	11	P
Tee Beam	Prestressed concrete	1971	30	11	P
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1961	24	11	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1913	34	11	P
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1900	55	11	F
Box Beam (Multiple)	Steel	2008	71	10	F
Slab	Wood or Timber	1995	20	10	F
Tee Beam	Prestressed concrete	1989	36	5	F

Correctional Facilities in Decorah

Name	Address	Type	Population	Capacity	Status
WINNESHIEK COUNTY JAIL	400 CLAIBORNE DRIVE	COUNTY	-999	40	OPEN

Airports Near Decorah

34 airports within the area.

Airport	IATA	Type
La Crosse Regional Airport	LSE	Medium Airport
Rochester International Airport	RST	Medium Airport
Waterloo Regional Airport	ALO	Medium Airport
Bluebird Airport	—	Small Airport
Caldbeck Field	—	Small Airport
Dale Delight Airport	—	Small Airport
Davis Field	—	Small Airport
Decorah Municipal Airport	DEH	Small Airport
Deters Farms Airport	—	Small Airport
Elkader Airport	—	Small Airport
Ellen Church Field	—	Small Airport
Eyota Airport	—	Small Airport
Fillmore County Airport	—	Small Airport
Flying A Airport	—	Small Airport
GAA Private (Abels Island) Airport	—	Small Airport
George L Scott Municipal Airport	—	Small Airport
High Grove Airport	—	Small Airport
Holland Air Park	—	Small Airport
Houston County Airport	—	Small Airport
Kohlmeyer Airport	—	Small Airport
Matthias Field	—	Small Airport
Mitchell Field	—	Small Airport
Monona Municipal Airport	—	Small Airport
New Hampton Municipal Airport	—	Small Airport
Oelwein Municipal Airport	—	Small Airport
Parkway Farm Strip	—	Small Airport
Pietenpol Field	—	Small Airport
Prairie Du Chien Municipal Airport	PCD	Small Airport
Rushford Municipal Airport - Robert W Bunke Field	—	Small Airport
Trygstad Airport	—	Small Airport
Turkey Bluff Airport	—	Small Airport
Van Norman's Airport	—	Small Airport
Waukon Municipal Airport	UKN	Small Airport
Waverly Municipal Airport	—	Small Airport

Police Stations in Decorah

2 police stations.

Station	Address	Phone
Calmar Police Department
Mabel Police Department

Grocery Stores in Decorah

12 grocery stores.

Store	Type	Address
CASEY'S 1591	Convenience Store	401 College Dr
Casey's General Store 2183	Convenience Store	1807 Old Stage Rd
Decorah Farmers Market	Farmers and Markets	399 Heivly St
Decorah Mart	Convenience Store	303 College Dr
Dollar Tree 5644	Other	915 Short St
Fareway Stores Inc. 589	Super Store	103 E Main St
Hy-Vee 1120	Convenience Store	915 Short St
Kwik Star 1081	Convenience Store	1101 Montgomery St
Kwik Star 1190	Convenience Store	306 College Dr
Kwik Star 629	Convenience Store	905 Short St
Oneota Community Coop	Supermarket	312 W Water St
Walmart 913	Super Store	1798 Old Stage Rd

Treatment Centers in Decorah

2 treatment centers.

Center	Type	Phone
Central Iowa Psychological Services - Decorah	Both	319-232-2086
Northeast Iowa Behavioral Health Inc	Both	563-382-3649

Churches & Religious Organizations in Decorah

21 religious organizations (IRS tax-exempt data).

Name	Address
ALLIANCE OF ASSOCIATE CONFERENCE MINISTERS	1680 VIKING HILLS RD
AMERICAN SOCIETY OF MISSIOLOGY INC	508 CENTER AVE
BIG CANOE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHRUCH OF WINNESHIEK COUNTY	1381 BIG CANOE RD
BURR OAK LUTHERAN CHURCH	3794 188TH AVE
CANOE RIDGE LUTHERAN CHURCH	1197 OLD STAGE RD
CATHOLIC DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAS	RT 3
DECORAH COMMUNITY CHURCH	PO BOX 365
DECORAH COVENANT CHURCH DECORAH IA	115 WASHINGTON ST
FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH	604 W BROADWAY ST
FRIENDS OF SPRINGWATER LUTHERAN CHURCH AND CEMETERY	1323 258TH ST
GLENWOOD LUTHERAN CHURCH	1197 OLD STAGE RD
GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN CHURCH OF DECORAH IA	701 IOWA AVE
HAUGE LUTHERAN CHURCH	210 IOWA AVE
HESPER LUTHERAN CHURCH	3794 188TH AVE
LUTHERAN QUARTERLY INC	1377 BIG CANOE RD
MADISON LUTHERAN CEMETERY ASSOCIATION	2534 235TH AVE
ONE WITHIN INC	2229 POLE LINE RD
ST BENEDICT CHURCH DECORAH IA	307 W MAIN ST
ST JOHNS LUTHERAN CHURCH	1638 BIG CANOE RD
STONE RIDGE COMMUNITY CHURCH	1111 MONTGOMERY ST
WASHINGTON PRAIRIE LUTHERAN CHURCH	1725 WASHINGTON PRAIRIE RD

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Active and inactive mining sites tracked by the Mine Safety and Health Administration

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UFO Sightings

Reported UFO sightings from the National UFO Reporting Center database

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Locations with documented reports of paranormal activity and sightings

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Frequently Asked Questions About Decorah

What is the population of Decorah?

Decorah has a population of 7,597 residents and is located in Iowa. The population density is 1,049 people per square mile, spread across 7.0 square miles. The median age of residents is 36.5 years, which is younger than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 52.9% female and 47.1% male.

Is Decorah expensive to live in?

Decorah is more affordable than the national average, with a cost of living index of 87.8 / below the baseline of 100. The median household income is $62,177, 17% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $234,600 (17% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $788 per month, below the national average of $1,163. The home price-to-income ratio is 3.8x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.

Is Decorah safe?

Decorah is considered a very safe city with a violent crime rate of 120 per 100,000 residents, well below the national average of 380. Property crime occurs at a rate of 983 per 100,000 (below the national average). Overall, Decorah receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.

What is the weather like in Decorah?

Decorah has a four-season climate with an average annual temperature of 49°F (9°C). Winter temperatures average 19°F in January, while summers reach an average of 74°F in July. The area receives 260 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Annual rainfall totals 37.6 inches, with 37.5 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 43.

How is the job market in Decorah?

The job market in Decorah is very strong, with unemployment at just 2.5% / well below the national rate of 3.6%. The average weekly wage is $989. There are 767 business establishments in the area, including 60 restaurants and food service locations. The average commute time is 12 minutes, and 9.7% of workers work from home.

How much does housing cost in Decorah?

The median home value in Decorah is $234,600. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $298,078. For renters, the median monthly rent is $788. Fair market rent is $788 for a 1-bedroom and $989 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 64.7%. The average annual property tax is $4,702.

How are the schools in Decorah?

Schools in Decorah score 6.7 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 46.1% of adults in Decorah hold a bachelor's degree or higher, above the national average of 33.7%. 96.2% have completed high school. 19.3% hold a graduate or professional degree.

How healthy is Decorah?

The obesity rate in Decorah is 35.9% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 12.9% of adults are smokers. 20.7% are physically inactive. 20.9% of residents report depression. 5.7% lack health insurance (below the national rate). 74.3% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The primary care physician ratio is 1:995.

What is transportation like in Decorah?

The average commute in Decorah is 12 minutes, shorter than the national average of 28 minutes. 58.1% of workers drive alone to work, and 9.7% work from home.

What are the demographics of Decorah?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Decorah is 94.1% White, 0.7% Black or African American, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino. 95.5% of residents speak only English at home, while 4.5% speak Spanish. 7.6% of the population are military veterans. 10.1% of residents have a disability. 98.1% have health insurance coverage.

Nearby Cities

Waukon, IA 3,796 pop · 15.6 mi Cresco, IA 3,901 pop · 17.4 mi Postville, IA 2,787 pop · 18.6 mi Spring Grove, MN 1,223 pop · 19.4 mi Harmony, MN 1,089 pop · 20.7 mi West Union, IA 2,393 pop · 23.7 mi Monona, IA 1,618 pop · 26.4 mi Caledonia, MN 2,825 pop · 27.0 mi Lansing, IA 1,111 pop · 28.5 mi Preston, MN 1,315 pop · 29.7 mi Fredericksburg, IA 1,040 pop · 31.2 mi New Hampton, IA 3,462 pop · 31.6 mi Fayette, IA 1,242 pop · 31.8 mi Sumner, IA 2,159 pop · 35.0 mi

Compare Decorah with another city:

Decorah, IA

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City Guide — Decorah

Overview 11/11

People 10/10

Economy 13/13

Housing 13/17

Health 25/26

Crime & Safety 11/12

Climate & Environment 17/19

Community 14/14

Cost of Services 3/3

Historical Trends 3/3

Geography 6/6

Places & Facilities 22/32

Explore (Map Features) 3/3

How Decorah Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)

People

Economy

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Crime

Health

Climate

Education

Community

Is Decorah a Good Place to Live?

Economy & Jobs

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Decorah vs U.S. Average

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Decorah vs U.S. Average

Income: Decorah vs U.S.

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Health Metrics: Decorah vs U.S. Average (%)

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Crime Rates: Decorah vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)

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2024 Presidential Election (County)

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