Is Carroll Safe, Pros and cons of living in Carroll

The city of Carroll offers a blend of community charm and practical living, making it an attractive option for those seeking a new place to call home. It presents a varied landscape of opportunities and challenges, from its housing market to its employment sectors. Understanding these facets is key for anyone considering a relocation to this area.

The cost of living in Carroll, Iowa, is noted as being 7.3% lower than the national average (according to Apartments.com). Housing costs are particularly favorable, with expenses generally 26.4% less than the national average. This affordability extends to rent, which falls within a range of $443 to $760 (according to Apartments.com). Groceries are slightly higher than the national average, by 3.2%, while utilities are 4.8% less expensive (according to Apartments.com). Transportation costs are 7.4% more than the national average, and goods and services are 7.3% higher (according to Apartments.com).

Is it Safe to Live in Carroll?

Safety in Carroll, Iowa, presents a mixed picture when compared to national averages. The city has a crime rate that is higher than the national average across all communities in America (according to NeighborhoodScout). However, when compared to other communities of similar population size, Carroll’s crime rate is noticeably lower than the average (according to NeighborhoodScout). Your chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Carroll is 1 in 98 (according to NeighborhoodScout).

Violent crimes, such as assault, rape, murder, and armed robbery, occur less often in Carroll than in most of America. The chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime in Carroll is 1 in 2,531, with a violent crime rate of 0 per one thousand inhabitants (according to NeighborhoodScout). Property crime, which includes motor vehicle theft, arson, larceny, and burglary, is where the concern lies. Carroll’s rate for property crime is 10 per one thousand population, indicating an above-average chance of becoming a victim of property crime when compared to all other communities in America of all population sizes (according to NeighborhoodScout).

Crime Statistics

Carroll County, Maryland, reports a crime rate of 24.60 per 1,000 residents annually (according to Map AI). Residents generally consider the southwest part of the county to be the safest. Your chance of being a victim of crime in Carroll County varies by area, ranging from 1 in 34 in the central areas to 1 in 46 in the southwest. The central parts of Carroll County, MD, see the most incidents, with approximately 993 crimes per year, while the west part has the fewest, with around 161 crimes annually (according to Map AI). The cost of crime per resident in Carroll County, MD, is $361 per year, which is less than the national and state averages (according to Map AI).

In Carroll County, Georgia, the crime rate was 3,470 incidents per 100,000 people in 2022 (according to Map AI). This rate is lower than the Georgia average but higher than the U.S. national average (according to Map AI). Theft was the most frequently reported crime in Carroll County, GA, in 2022, with 870 incidents (according to Map AI). Assault and destruction/damage/vandalism of property were also commonly reported (according to Map AI). The cost of crime per resident in Carroll County, GA, is $364 per year, which is less than the national and state averages (according to Map AI).

Housing and Living Costs

The housing market in Carroll County, Maryland, shows a median listing price of $495,000, with a year-over-year change in sale price median of -0.98% (according to Realtor.com). The median rent price stands at $1,900, with year-over-year rent prices up by 0.26% (according to Realtor.com). The market is considered hot, with homes selling in a median of 26 days (according to Realtor.com).

In Carroll, Iowa, the cost of living is 7.3% lower than the national average (according to Apartments.com). Housing is generally 26.4% less expensive than the national average, with rents ranging between $443 and $760 (according to Apartments.com). Groceries are 3.2% more expensive, while utilities are 4.8% less expensive (according to Apartments.com). Transportation costs are 7.4% higher, and goods and services are 7.3% more expensive than the national average (according to Apartments.com).

Home Prices and Rent

Carroll County, Maryland’s median listing price is $495,000, with a slight year-over-year decrease of 0.98% in the median sale price (according to Realtor.com). The median rent price is $1,900, showing a modest increase of 0.26% over the past year (according to Realtor.com). The market is competitive, with homes typically selling in 26 days (according to Realtor.com).

For Carroll, Iowa, the median rent is $875 (according to Zillow). Houses in Carroll, IA, rent between $650 and $1,800, with an average rent of $875 (according to Zillow). Over the past year, the rent in Carroll, IA, has increased by $50 (according to Zillow). There are currently six rentals available in Carroll, IA (according to Zillow).

Job Market and Economy

The unemployment rate in Carroll County, Maryland, was 4% in February 2026, a 1.3 percentage point increase from the previous year (according to USAFacts). Carroll County, MD’s unemployment rate ranked 24th out of 24 counties in Maryland in February 2026 (according to USAFacts). In Carroll County, Georgia, the unemployment rate was 3.50% in a recent period, which is lower than the long-term average (according to YCharts).

The average salary at The Carroll Companies is approximately $76,734 annually, with salaries typically ranging from $67,495 to $86,971 (according to Zippia). At Carroll University, the average salary is around $81,016 annually, with typical ranges from $71,083 to $92,533 (according to Indeed). For Carroll University faculty, the average yearly pay is approximately $45,487, which is 31% below the national average (according to Indeed).

Major Employers

In Carroll County, Indiana, major employers include Indiana Packers Corp, Delphi Community Elementary, and St. Elizabeth Health Care Ctr (according to Hoosiers by the Numbers). Other significant employers are Carroll Consolidated School Corp, Flora Super Valu, and McDonald’s (according to Hoosiers by the Numbers). Carroll County, Maryland, lists its major employers as Carroll County Public Schools, Carroll Hospital, and McDaniel College (according to Carroll County Economic Development).

In Carroll, Iowa, key employers include Farner Bocken, St. Anthony Regional Hospital, and Pella Corporation (according to the Carroll Chamber of Commerce). Hy-Vee and Walmart Super Center are also significant employers in the area (according to the Carroll Chamber of Commerce). Carroll Independent School District in Texas is a major employer, with all 11 campuses receiving “A” ratings from the Texas Education Agency (according to Carroll Independent School District).

Climate and Weather

Carroll, Iowa, experiences extreme seasonal variations in rainfall, with a rainy period lasting approximately 9.8 months out of the year (according to WeatherSpark.com). The month with the most rain is June, with an average of 4.5 inches, while January receives the least, with an average of 0.2 inches (according to WeatherSpark.com). Summers in Carroll are long, warm, humid, and wet, with temperatures typically ranging from 13°F to 85°F throughout the year, rarely falling below -6°F or exceeding 93°F (according to WeatherSpark.com). The hottest month is July, with an average high of 85°F and a low of 65°F (according to WeatherSpark.com).

In Carroll County, Maryland, the climate is characterized by warm, humid summers and very cold, snowy, and windy winters (according to Carroll County Regional Airport/Jack B Poage Field). The temperature typically varies from 25°F to 88°F, with rare dips below 11°F or highs above 96°F (according to Carroll County Regional Airport/Jack B Poage Field). June is the month with the most wet days, averaging 11.0 days with at least 0.04 inches of precipitation, while January has the fewest, with an average of 6.7 wet days (according to Carroll County Regional Airport/Jack B Poage Field).

Average Temperatures and Rainfall

Carroll, Iowa, has a hot season lasting about 4.1 months, from mid-May to late September, with average daily high temperatures above 74°F (according to WeatherSpark.com). The coldest month is January, with an average low of 14°F and a high of 30°F (according to WeatherSpark.com). The area receives a significant amount of rainfall, with June being the wettest month, averaging 4.5 inches (according to WeatherSpark.com).

Carroll County, Maryland, experiences its hottest month in July, with average highs of 88°F and lows of 68°F (according to Carroll County Regional Airport/Jack B Poage Field). The coldest month is January, with average lows of 26°F and highs of 40°F (according to Carroll County Regional Airport/Jack B Poage Field). The wetter season in Carroll County, MD, lasts about 4.8 months, from early April to late August, with June having the most wet days (according to Carroll County Regional Airport/Jack B Poage Field).

Education and Demographics

Carroll Independent School District in Texas is highly regarded, with all 11 campuses receiving “A” ratings from the Texas Education Agency (according to Carroll Independent School District). Five of its schools have been named National Blue Ribbon Schools by the U.S. Department of Education (according to Carroll Independent School District). The district serves over 8,100 students and has a student-teacher ratio of 17 to 1 (according to Carroll Independent School District).

In Carroll County, Maryland, the population was 177,108 in 2024, with a median age of 41.3 years (according to Data Commons). The largest ethnic groups are White (Non-Hispanic) at 148,000, followed by Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) at 7,040, and Asian (Non-Hispanic) at 4,200 (according to Data USA). In Carroll County, Illinois, the racial makeup as of the 2020 census was 89.9% White, 4.4% Black or African American, and 0.4% American Indian and Alaska Native (according to Wikipedia). The median age in Carroll County, Illinois, was 46.5 years as of 2020 (according to Wikipedia).

School Ratings

Carroll Independent School District in Texas is ranked among the top school districts in the state, with an overall Niche grade of A+ (according to Niche). It is recognized as the #3 best school district in Texas and the #2 best school district for athletes (according to Niche). Five of its schools have received National Blue Ribbon School status from the U.S. Department of Education (according to Nitin Gupta, REALTOR).

Carroll School in Lincoln, Massachusetts, is a private school serving 447 students in grades 1-9, with a tuition of $59,000 per year (according to Niche). It ranks within the top 20% of private schools in Massachusetts, noted for its low average acceptance rate (according to Niche). The school has an average class size of 7 students (according to Niche).

Demographics

Carroll County, Maryland, has a population of approximately 175,000 residents, with White (Non-Hispanic) individuals making up the largest demographic group at 148,000 (according to Data USA). Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) residents number around 7,040, and Asian (Non-Hispanic) residents are approximately 4,200 (according to Data USA). The median age in Carroll County, MD, is 41.3 years (according to Data Commons).

In Carroll County, Illinois, the population was 15,702 as of the 2020 census, with a median age of 46.5 years (according to Wikipedia). The racial composition was predominantly White (89.9%), followed by Black or African American (4.4%) and American Indian/Alaska Native (0.4%) (according to Wikipedia). Hispanic or Latino residents comprised 4.8% of the population (according to Wikipedia).

Pros and Cons of Living in Carroll

Carroll offers a cost of living that is lower than the national average, particularly in housing expenses (as reported by Apartments.com). This affordability can be a significant draw for individuals and families looking to stretch their budgets further. The area also presents a generally safer environment when compared to similarly sized cities, despite a property crime rate that is higher than the national average (according to NeighborhoodScout).

However, the higher property crime rate in Carroll is a notable concern that potential residents should consider (according to NeighborhoodScout). While violent crime rates are lower than the national average, property crime can impact the sense of security for residents (according to NeighborhoodScout). Additionally, while the cost of living is generally lower, some expenses like transportation can be higher than the national average (according to Apartments.com).

Housing Market Advantages

The housing market in Carroll, Iowa, is characterized by its affordability, with general housing costs 26.4% lower than the national average (as reported by Apartments.com). Rent prices are also quite accessible, typically falling between $443 and $760 (as reported by Apartments.com). This makes it easier for individuals and families to find suitable and cost-effective housing options.

In Carroll County, Maryland, the median home price stands at $495,000 (as reported by Realtor.com). While this is a considerable investment, the year-over-year change in sale price median shows a slight decrease of 0.98%, suggesting a stable or slightly softening market (as reported by Realtor.com). The median rent price is $1,900, with a modest annual increase of 0.26% (as reported by Realtor.com).

Employment Opportunities and Challenges

Carroll County, Maryland, has an unemployment rate of 4% as of February 2026, which has seen a slight increase from the previous year (as reported by USAFacts). This indicates a competitive job market. The average salary for employees at The Carroll Companies is approximately $76,734, with a typical range of $67,495 to $86,971 (as reported by Zippia).

Carroll University faculty earn an average of $45,487 annually, which is notably below the national average for faculty (as reported by Indeed). This suggests that while employment opportunities exist, salary levels may vary significantly depending on the sector and specific role. Major employers across different Carroll regions include educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and manufacturing companies (as reported by Hoosiers by the Numbers, Carroll Chamber of Commerce, and Carroll County Economic Development).

Climate and Lifestyle

Carroll, Iowa, experiences distinct seasons, with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters (as reported by WeatherSpark.com). The temperature typically ranges from 13°F to 85°F throughout the year (as reported by WeatherSpark.com). Rainfall is substantial, particularly in June, which averages 4.5 inches (as reported by WeatherSpark.com).

Carroll County, Maryland, also has a varied climate, with warm, humid summers and very cold, snowy winters (as reported by Carroll County Regional Airport/Jack B Poage Field). Average temperatures range from 25°F to 88°F (as reported by Carroll County Regional Airport/Jack B Poage Field). The area experiences a wetter season from April to August, with June being the month with the most precipitation (as reported by Carroll County Regional Airport/Jack B Poage Field).

Seasonal Considerations

The climate in Carroll, Iowa, requires residents to adapt to significant temperature fluctuations and a considerable amount of rainfall, especially during the summer months (as reported by WeatherSpark.com). The colder winter months bring freezing temperatures, snow, and wind, necessitating preparation for harsh weather conditions (as reported by WeatherSpark.com). The period from early June to early September is considered the best time for warm-weather activities due to favorable temperatures (as reported by WeatherSpark.com).

For Carroll County, Maryland, the summer months are warm and humid, with July being the hottest month (as reported by Carroll County Regional Airport/Jack B Poage Field). Winter brings very cold temperatures, snow, and wind (as reported by Carroll County Regional Airport/Jack B Poage Field). Residents can expect a wetter season from April through August, with June typically seeing the most rainfall (as reported by Carroll County Regional Airport/Jack B Poage Field).

Community and Culture

Carroll Independent School District in Texas is highly rated, with all of its campuses receiving “A” ratings from the Texas Education Agency (as reported by Carroll Independent School District). This reflects a strong emphasis on education within the community. Carroll University is a significant institution, contributing to the local culture and economy (as reported by Indeed and Zippia).

Demographic data for Carroll County, Maryland, shows a population primarily composed of White (Non-Hispanic) individuals, followed by Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) and Asian (Non-Hispanic) residents (as reported by Data USA). In Carroll County, Illinois, the population is also predominantly White, with smaller percentages of Black or African American and American Indian/Alaska Native residents (as reported by Wikipedia). This demographic makeup influences the community’s cultural landscape and social dynamics.

Demographics and Diversity

Carroll County, Maryland, is home to a population of approximately 177,108 residents, with a median age of 41.3 years (as reported by Data Commons). The demographic landscape is largely comprised of White (Non-Hispanic) individuals, making up the majority, followed by Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) and Asian (Non-Hispanic) populations (as reported by Data USA). Approximately 5.46% of residents were born outside the country (as reported by Data USA).

In Carroll County, Illinois, the population was recorded at 15,702 in the 2020 census, with a median age of 46.5 years (as reported by Wikipedia). The racial composition is predominantly White (89.9%), with smaller percentages of Black or African American (4.4%) and American Indian/Alaska Native (0.4%) individuals (as reported by Wikipedia). Hispanic or Latino residents constitute 4.8% of the population (as reported by Wikipedia).

Population Trends

Carroll County, Maryland, has a citizenship rate of 97.7% as of 2024, which is higher than the national average (as reported by Data USA). The population in Carroll Independent School District, Texas, saw an increase from 28,360 in 2010 to 30,539 in 2015, a growth of 7.7% (as reported by ProximityOne). This indicates a growing population in certain Carroll areas.

The median age in Carroll, Iowa, is not explicitly stated in the provided search results, but the median age in Carroll County, Illinois, is 46.5 years (as reported by Wikipedia). Carroll County, Maryland’s median age is 41.3 years (as reported by Data Commons). These figures provide insight into the age distribution of the population in different Carroll regions.

Racial and Ethnic Composition

In Carroll County, Maryland, White (Non-Hispanic) residents form the largest demographic group, accounting for approximately 148,000 individuals (as reported by Data USA). Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) residents number around 7,040, and Asian (Non-Hispanic) residents are approximately 4,200 (as reported by Data USA). Hispanic or Latino individuals make up about 5.09% of the population (as reported by Data USA).

Carroll County, Illinois, has a racial makeup that is 89.9% White, 4.4% Black or African American, and 0.4% American Indian and Alaska Native, according to the 2020 census (as reported by Wikipedia). Hispanic or Latino residents comprise 4.8% of the population (as reported by Wikipedia). The median age in this county is 46.5 years (as reported by Wikipedia).

Education and Schools

Carroll Independent School District in Texas is consistently ranked among the top school districts in the state, earning an “A” rating from the Texas Education Agency for all 11 of its campuses (as reported by Carroll Independent School District). Five of its schools have been recognized as National Blue Ribbon Schools by the U.S. Department of Education, highlighting a commitment to educational excellence (as reported by Nitin Gupta, REALTOR). The district serves over 8,100 students, maintaining a student-teacher ratio of 17 to 1 (as reported by Carroll Independent School District).

Carroll University, located in Waukesha, Wisconsin, offers various programs, with undergraduate tuition and fees around $38,890 for 2025 (as reported by Carroll University). The university’s cost of attendance for on-campus living in 2025 is estimated at $58,172 (as reported by Carroll University). A significant majority of students, 95%, receive grants or scholarships, with an average aid amount of $23,598 (as reported by Carroll University).

School District Performance

Carroll Independent School District in Texas boasts an impressive record, with all its campuses receiving “A” ratings from the Texas Education Agency (as reported by Carroll Independent School District). It has also earned the UIL Lone Star Cup for athletic and academic achievement multiple times (as reported by Nitin Gupta, REALTOR). The district’s commitment to quality education is further evidenced by its recognition as one of the best school districts in Texas by Niche (as reported by Niche).

Carroll School, a private institution in Lincoln, Massachusetts, caters to students in grades 1-9. It is recognized as a top-ranked school, with a low average acceptance rate of 24% (as reported by Niche). The school emphasizes a low student-teacher ratio of 3 to 1, ensuring personalized attention for its 441 students (as reported by Niche).

Higher Education and Learning

Carroll University has an average salary of approximately $81,016 for its employees as of May 2026 (as reported by Indeed). The university’s undergraduate tuition and fees for 2025 are $38,890, with on-campus living costs estimated at $58,172 for the same year (as reported by Carroll University). The average financial aid awarded is $23,598, which covers a substantial portion of the costs for many students (as reported by Carroll University).

Carroll College in Helena, Montana, has an average annual tuition of $39,152, with room and board fees an additional $11,624 (as reported by CollegeSimply). The estimated total cost to attend Carroll College on a full-time basis is $56,044 per annum (as reported by CollegeSimply). The average net price for students receiving grants or scholarships was $26,103 in the 2019/2020 academic year (as reported by CollegeSimply).

Quality of Life

The cost of living in Carroll, Iowa, is 7.3% lower than the national average, making it an economically attractive place to reside (as reported by Apartments.com). Housing costs are particularly favorable, being 26.4% less expensive than the national average (as reported by Apartments.com). This affordability contributes to a higher quality of life for residents by reducing financial strain.

Safety is a key component of quality of life, and Carroll, Iowa, presents a mixed profile. While violent crime rates are low, property crime rates are higher than the national average (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). This suggests a need for residents to be aware of their surroundings and take precautions against property crime.

Community Engagement

Carroll Independent School District in Texas is highly rated, with all its campuses receiving “A” ratings from the Texas Education Agency (as reported by Carroll Independent School District). This educational excellence fosters a strong community focus on learning and development. Carroll University also plays a vital role in its community, offering educational opportunities and contributing to the local economy (as reported by Indeed and Zippia).

Demographic data indicates that Carroll County, Maryland, is predominantly White (Non-Hispanic), with significant Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) and Asian (Non-Hispanic) populations (as reported by Data USA). This diversity contributes to the community’s cultural richness. Similarly, Carroll County, Illinois, is largely White, with smaller Black or African American and American Indian/Alaska Native populations (as reported by Wikipedia).

Recreational and Cultural Activities

Carroll, Iowa, offers a climate with distinct seasons, featuring warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters (as reported by WeatherSpark.com). The temperature typically ranges from 13°F to 85°F throughout the year (as reported by WeatherSpark.com). Recreational activities would likely be seasonal, with summer offering opportunities for outdoor pursuits and winter for snow-related activities.

Carroll County, Maryland, experiences a climate with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters (as reported by Carroll County Regional Airport/Jack B Poage Field). The average temperatures range from 25°F to 88°F (as reported by Carroll County Regional Airport/Jack B Poage Field). The area’s climate supports various seasonal activities, from summer outdoor recreation to winter sports.

Key Takeaways for Potential Residents

Carroll presents a compelling option for those seeking a lower cost of living, particularly in housing (as reported by Apartments.com). The area’s property crime rate, however, warrants consideration, as it is higher than the national average (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). Residents can expect a climate with distinct seasons, ranging from warm summers to cold winters, with varying amounts of rainfall throughout the year (as reported by WeatherSpark.com and Carroll County Regional Airport/Jack B Poage Field).

The job market in Carroll shows an unemployment rate of 4% in Carroll County, Maryland (as reported by USAFacts), indicating a competitive environment. Major employers across different Carroll regions include educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and manufacturing companies (as reported by Hoosiers by the Numbers, Carroll Chamber of Commerce, and Carroll County Economic Development). The educational system, particularly in districts like Carroll Independent School District in Texas, is highly rated, offering strong academic opportunities (as reported by Carroll Independent School District).

Housing Market Insights

The median home price in Carroll County, Maryland, is $495,000, with a slight year-over-year decrease in sale price median (as reported by Realtor.com). Rent prices in Carroll, Iowa, average around $875, with a modest increase over the past year (as reported by Zillow). These figures suggest a relatively stable housing market with opportunities for both homeowners and renters.

The cost of housing in Carroll, Iowa, is notably lower than the national average, with general housing costs 26.4% less expensive (as reported by Apartments.com). This affordability is a significant advantage for residents. In contrast, Carroll, New Hampshire, is a seller’s market, indicating high demand and potentially higher prices (as reported by Zillow).

Economic Factors

Carroll County, Maryland, has an unemployment rate of 4% as of February 2026 (as reported by USAFacts). Average salaries vary by employer, with The Carroll Companies offering an average of $76,734 annually (as reported by Zippia) and Carroll University faculty earning an average of $45,487 annually (as reported by Indeed). These figures highlight the diverse economic landscape and salary ranges within the Carroll areas.

Major employers across various Carroll locations include manufacturing, healthcare, education, and retail sectors (as reported by Hoosiers by the Numbers, Carroll Chamber of Commerce, and Carroll County Economic Development). These diverse employment opportunities provide a range of options for job seekers in the region. The overall economic picture suggests a stable, albeit competitive, job market.