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Clear Lake, IA

View of Clear Lake, IA
Image credit: Bill Whittaker ( talk ) / CC BY-SA 3.0
Population
7,601
U.S. Census Population Estimates Program · 2025
Elevation
1,234 ft
Median Home Value
$259,500
U.S. Census American Community Survey 5-Year · 2024
Median Rent
$808/mo
U.S. Census American Community Survey 5-Year · 2024
Median Income
$79,415
U.S. Census American Community Survey 5-Year · 2024
General Quality
Overall rating out of 100

Highlights

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OverallBest places in IowaPopulation rankingHighest population places in IowaNearest larger communityMason City, Iowa8.8 miles away · 26,853 residents.

About Clear Lake

Sitting right along the water in north-central Iowa, Clear Lake offers classic lakeside living with a friendly, small-town atmosphere of around 7,700 people. Daily life often revolves around the lake, with plenty of spots for boating, fishing, lounging at City Beach, or grabbing lunch downtown. Thanks to easy access to Interstate 35 and Highway 18, residents get the peace and quiet of a water-oriented community while staying just a quick drive from bigger stores, jobs, and healthcare in neighboring Mason City.

2015 10 11 Surf Ballroom 1

The town has a unique claim to fame as the home of the historic Surf Ballroom, the legendary music venue where Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and the Big Bopper played their final concert in 1959. It still hosts live music throughout the year, anchoring a community calendar packed with weekend lake events, Fourth of July celebrations, and winter activities on the ice. Combined with solid local schools and safe, walkable neighborhoods, Clear Lake makes it easy to settle into a relaxed routine.

Top Rating Signals

Highest current ratings for this town.

Lower County Wildfire Hazard Potential ClassA+100.0ratingLower Projected Late-Century County-Area Exposure to Sea-Level RiseA+100.0ratingSmall Town FitA+99.1rating

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