Is Fort Madison Safe, Pros and cons of living in Fort Madison

Fort Madison, Iowa, offers a blend of historical charm and a growing community atmosphere. Situated along the Mississippi River, this city provides a unique setting for its residents. It is a place where industrial heritage meets modern living, creating a distinct character for those who call it home.

The city’s location provides access to natural beauty and recreational opportunities, further enhancing its appeal. With a focus on community development and economic growth, Fort Madison strives to be a welcoming place for families and individuals alike. Its strategic position in Southeast Iowa makes it an interesting locale for those seeking a balance between small-town feel and access to amenities.

Is it Safe to Live in Fort Madison?

Fort Madison generally presents a safe environment for its residents, with overall crime rates falling below the national average. As of the latest reports, the city’s crime rate is approximately 6% lower than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). This suggests a relatively secure atmosphere for those considering a move to the area.

Breaking down the crime statistics, violent crimes in Fort Madison are reported at a rate of 281 per 100,000 individuals, which is 21.8% lower than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). Property crimes also show a favorable comparison, with 1706 incidents per 100,000 residents, just 3.1% lower than the U.S. average (as reported by AreaVibes). Year-over-year data indicates a significant decrease in overall crime, with violent crimes seeing a 60.6% reduction and property crimes decreasing by 38.6% (as reported by AreaVibes).

However, it is important to note that crime rates can vary by neighborhood. While the central part of Fort Madison is considered the safest, some areas may experience higher property crime rates. Fort Madison ranks in the 33rd percentile for safety, indicating it is safer than 33% of cities but less safe than 67% (as reported by CrimeGrade.org). Specifically, the property crime rate is 16.32 per 1,000 residents, with chances of being a victim ranging from 1 in 44 in southeastern neighborhoods to 1 in 78 in central areas (as reported by CrimeGrade.org).

Cost of Living and Housing

The cost of living in Fort Madison offers a more affordable alternative compared to many other U.S. cities. The median household income in Fort Madison was reported at $50,705 (as reported by Data USA), with a poverty rate of 15% (as reported by Data USA). This median income reflects a 2.73% growth from the previous year (as reported by Data USA).

Housing in Fort Madison is notably accessible. The median property value in Fort Madison was $94,200 in 2024, a slight decrease of 1.77% from the previous year (as reported by Data USA). The homeownership rate stands at a healthy 72.4%, which is higher than the national average (as reported by Data USA). For those looking to rent, the average rent in Fort Madison is approximately $695 per month, which is significantly lower than the national average (as reported by Zillow).

When considering home prices, the average home value in Fort Madison was $109,640 as of March 31, 2026, showing a slight decrease of 1.3% over the past year (as reported by Zillow). The median list price for homes in Fort Madison was $151,458 as of March 31, 2026 (as reported by Zillow). The rental market shows limited availability, with only a few active listings, suggesting that rental options may be scarce for prospective tenants (as reported by Realtor.com® Research).

Job Market and Economy

Fort Madison’s economy is supported by a diverse range of industries, with manufacturing and healthcare playing significant roles. The largest industries in Fort Madison include Manufacturing, Health Care & Social Assistance, and Retail Trade (as reported by Data USA). These sectors provide a substantial portion of the employment opportunities within the city.

The average salary in Fort Madison was approximately $50,395 per year as of May 26, 2026, which translates to about $24.23 per hour (as reported by ZipRecruiter). This figure is based on a range of salaries, with the 25th percentile earning around $34,252 and the 75th percentile earning up to $61,703 annually (as reported by ZipRecruiter). Several major employers contribute to the local job market, including Conagra Foods, DuPont, and Siemens WP (as reported by Fort Madison Chamber of Commerce).

The unemployment rate in Fort Madison is generally competitive. While specific recent figures for Fort Madison are not directly available from the Bureau of Labor Statistics search, the overall unemployment rate for Iowa was 3.3% in March 2026 (as reported by Iowa Workforce Development). This indicates a relatively stable job market within the state, which likely extends to Fort Madison.

Climate and Weather

Fort Madison experiences a climate typical of the Midwest, with distinct seasons and moderate precipitation. The city generally enjoys warm summers and cold winters. Average summer high temperatures typically reach the low 80s Fahrenheit, while winter lows can dip into the teens Fahrenheit.

Precipitation is distributed throughout the year, with the highest amounts usually occurring in the late spring and summer months. Thunderstorms are common during the warmer seasons, and occasional severe weather can occur in the Midwest region. The National Weather Service provides detailed forecasts, indicating typical conditions such as sunny days with highs near 72°F in spring and potential for showers and thunderstorms in the warmer months (as reported by National Weather Service).

The average humidity levels are moderate, and wind patterns can vary, often picking up in the afternoons. The climate is conducive to outdoor activities during the spring, summer, and fall, with winter requiring preparedness for colder temperatures and potential snowfall.

Education and Schools

Fort Madison’s educational landscape includes public schools that serve the community’s K-12 population. The Fort Madison Community School District provides educational services to students in the area. Fort Madison High School, a public institution, serves students in grades 9-12 and has a student-teacher ratio of 14 to 1 (as reported by Niche).

According to Niche, Fort Madison High School received an overall grade of C, with specific grades for Academics (C), Diversity (B), Teachers (B-), College Prep (C+), Clubs & Activities (C), and Administration (C) (as reported by Niche). State test scores indicate that approximately 60% of students are proficient in math and 73% in reading (as reported by Niche).

While the schools provide a foundational education, some reviews suggest areas for improvement in college preparation and curriculum engagement. However, the district is committed to serving its student population and offers a range of programs and activities designed to support student development.

Demographics

Fort Madison is home to a population of approximately 10,133 residents (as reported by Data USA). The median age in Fort Madison is 42.1 years (as reported by Data USA). The population is relatively evenly split between males and females, with males making up 52.4% and females 47.6% (as reported by Point2Homes).

The racial makeup of Fort Madison is predominantly White, accounting for about 89.4% of the population (as reported by Point2Homes). Other racial groups include African Americans (3.8%), and smaller percentages of Asian, Native American, and multiracial populations (as reported by Point2Homes). The Hispanic or Latino population constitutes approximately 6.0% of the residents (as reported by Point2Homes).

A significant majority of Fort Madison’s residents are U.S. citizens, with 98.9% holding citizenship (as reported by Data USA). The foreign-born population represents a small fraction, around 2.32% (as reported by Data USA). The average household size is about 2.1 members (as reported by Point2Homes).