Is Farley Safe, Pros and cons of living in Farley

Is it Safe to Live in Farley?

Farley offers a generally safe environment for its residents. The overall crime rate in Farley is significantly below the national average, with property crime rates being particularly low. Violent crime rates also trend lower than the national average, contributing to a feeling of security within the community.

The city’s crime safety grade is rated as A+ by some sources, indicating a very low incidence of criminal activity. Your chance of becoming a victim of violent crime is approximately 1 in 398, and for property crime, it’s about 1 in 306. These statistics suggest that Farley is a secure place to live.

Pros and Cons of Living in Farley

Farley presents a compelling option for those seeking a quieter lifestyle, with its cost of living being notably lower than the national average. This affordability extends to housing expenses, which are considerably less than the national benchmark. The community also boasts a rural feel, which many residents find appealing.

However, the job market in Farley may offer fewer opportunities compared to larger metropolitan areas. While there are local employers, the range and diversity of available positions might be more limited. The median salary, while decent, may not be as high as in more economically robust regions.

Housing Costs

The housing market in Farley offers attractive prices for prospective homeowners. The median home value in Farley is approximately $310,136, showing a slight increase over the past year (Zillow, March 31, 2026). This figure is also supported by other estimates, with the U.S. Census Bureau reporting a median home value of $242,600 in 2023, and Zillow noting a median property value of $266,000 in 2024 (U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2023; Zillow, March 31, 2026).

Rental prices in Farley are also considerably lower than the national average. The average rent for all property types is around $877 per month (Zillow, April 29, 2026), and other sources indicate an average rent of $801 per month as of March 2026 (Apartments.com, March 2026). This makes Farley an accessible option for renters as well.

Job Market and Economy

Farley’s economy is characterized by a median household income of $96,563 (U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2023). This income level is higher than the state average, providing a reasonable standard of living. The unemployment rate in Farley was reported at 5.5% in 2023, according to the U.S. Census Bureau (U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2023).

While specific major employers are not detailed, the Dyersville Area Chamber of Commerce notes Farley’s manufacturing sector and a safe community as key assets (Dyersville Area Chamber of Commerce). The city’s overall cost of living is 9% lower than the national average, according to Payscale, with housing expenses being 30% lower (Payscale).

Climate and Weather

Farley experiences a climate with distinct seasons. Summers are warm and wet, with average daily high temperatures exceeding 71°F from May to September. July is the hottest month, with an average high of 82°F (NOAA).

Winters are cold, snowy, and windy, with average daily high temperatures falling below 38°F from late November to early March. January is the coldest month, with average lows around 13°F (NOAA). The town receives an average of 4.4 inches of rain in June, its wettest month, while January sees the least amount of precipitation, with an average of 0.3 inches (NOAA).

Demographics and Population

Farley is a small city with a population of approximately 1,809 residents as of the 2023 U.S. Census Bureau estimate (U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2023). Projections suggest a slight increase, with an estimated population of 2,030 in 2026 (CUBIT). The population is predominantly White, making up about 95.7% of residents (U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2023).

The median age in Farley is 35.0 years (U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2023). A significant portion of the adult population holds a bachelor’s degree or higher, with 22.3% having achieved this level of education (U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2023). The poverty rate in Farley is notably low, at 1.5% (U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2023).

Education

The public schools serving Farley are highly rated, contributing to the town’s appeal for families. Farley Elementary School receives an overall Niche grade of B, with strong ratings in academics, diversity, and teachers (Niche). Drexler Middle – Intermediate School also earns an A-minus from Niche, indicating a high-quality educational experience for middle school students (Niche).

Western Dubuque High School, serving the area, holds a B+ rating from Niche, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence and student development (Niche). These strong school ratings suggest a supportive educational environment for children in Farley.