Baxter

Baxter is conveniently located near Des Moines, Ames, and Marshalltown. This creates the perfect opportunity for small town living with a quick commute for work. While many residents do commute to larger cities, businesses moving to Baxter will find that many would prefer to work near home.

Baxter has a strong K-12 school system, along with the Baxter Early Learning Center daycare. 

Amenities

Baxter is an ideal spot for those who love the outdoors. Located at the head of the Chichaqua Valley Trail, it’s easy for residents to ride a bike, take a stroll, and enjoy the scenery. Residents also enjoy the Baxter Children’s Park, Sports Complex Playground, School Playground and Geise Park, in addition to the FREE fitness center.

Businesses 

The community is growing and actively recruiting new businesses through the Baxter Economic Development Corporation (BEDCO). BEDCO is guided by community volunteers committed to the future growth of business, industry, and housing in Baxter. Along with the Mayor and City Council, this group has completed many successful projects since its formation in 1988.

For more information about the City of Baxter, click here.

 

 

Population

Total Population

961

Population
Growth Rate

0.04%

Median Age

39

Diversity Index

5.700

Source: ESRI, 2025-08-25

Housing & Income

Households

394

Total Housing Units

426


Owner Occupied

306

Renter Occupied

88

Vacant

32

Median Home Value

$189,634


Average Home Value

$242,729

Income
Growth Rate

Median
Household Income

0.00%


Per Capita Income

2.28%

Income Projection

Median Household

$65,399 $71,216


Average Household

$92,151 $104,439


Per Capita

$37,781 $42,296

Source: ESRI, 2025-08-25

Workforce

Total Businesses

36

Total Employed

286

Workers 16+

547

2025 Educational Services - Businesses

cp-industries

Businesses

2

Employed

81

2025 Retail Trade Businesses

cp-industries

Businesses

3

Employed

73

2025 Food & Beverage Retailers

N

Businesses

1

Employed

60

2025 Other Service excl Pub Admin

cp-industries

Businesses

9

Employed

37

2025 Prof / Scientific / Tech Service

cp-industries

Businesses

5

Employed

24

2025 Auto Repair / Maintenance

N

Businesses

3

Employed

22

Some
High School

3

Graduated
High School

131

Associates
Degree

118

Bachelor's
Degree

121

Graduate
Degree

43

Average Commute Time

0 min.



Resident Commuters

270

Non-Resident Commuters

277

Drive Alone

459

Carpooled

22

Public

0

Work At Home

43

Source: ESRI, 2025-08-25
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