Waterloo, IA
Located on the Cedar River, Waterloo dramatically re-energized its downtown in recent years by completing a huge riverfront renaissance initiative that includes a plaza, riverwalk trail, amphitheater, splash pad and Dekhockey rink. The development complements an array of shopping, dining, nightlife and cultural entertainment options downtown and was a catalyst in growing those destinations.
These smaller businesses join larger employers such as John Deere – the largest and most famous – along with food industry leaders ConAgra and Tyson Foods, cabinetry makers Bertch and Omega and more. Also, the new $100 million Lost Island Themepark recently opened its doors to residents and visitors.
Residents enjoy convenient access to two quality hospitals, plus many amenities to keep them healthy and fit, including 50-plus parks and more than 100 miles of paved trails. The community is home to Hawkeye Community College and is adjacent to Cedar Falls, home of the University of Northern Iowa.
Waterloo is part of the vibrant Cedar Valley region. Are you thinking about moving to Waterloo? Be sure to check out the new edition of Livability Cedar Valley to find out more about living and working in this great region.
Weather in Waterloo, IA
Average Temperatures
58 high / 37 low
Average Annual Rainfall
35 in
Average Annual Snowfall
35 in
Quick Facts about Waterloo, Iowa
- Median Home Value
- $157,859
- Median Property Tax
- $2,267
- Total Population
- 67,785
- Average Commute
- 14 min
- Median Household Income
- $56,287
- Median Monthly Rent
- $698
Map of Waterloo, IA
Experiences & Adventures in Waterloo, IA
10 Cedar Valley Festivals Celebrating Local Arts and Culture
Put these 10 Cedar Valley festivals on your radar for a unique arts and culture experience in the region.
Farms in the Cedar Valley, IA, Foster a Deeper Connection to Nature Through Agritourism Experiences
The Cedar Valley’s Engelbrecht Farm, TwoMorrows Acres, New Day Dairy GuestBarn and Three Pines Farm all offer unforgettable agritourism experiences for locals and visitors.
The Cedar Valley, IA, Boasts Big-City Convenience and Small-Town Nostalgia
Home to both major metropolitan areas and charming historic downtowns, there’s plenty to love about living in the Cedar Valley, Iowa.
Food Scenes in Waterloo, IA
Where to Find Great Beer and Wine in Cedar Valley, IA
Tap into a thriving craft beverage scene in Waterloo, Cedar Falls and the surrounding communities.
Retired Teacher Opens Art Bar in Cedar Falls, IA
Ragged Edge Art Bar and Gallery is a cocktail bar that showcases local artists’ work in the Cedar Valley region.
Feast on Fabulous Farm-to-table Fare in Iowa
A rich, agricultural heritage provides restaurants with fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy!
Healthy Places in Waterloo, IA
Start Your Medical Career in Cedar Valley, IA
In Iowa's Cedar Valley region, students can prepare for a future in the medical field at Wartburg College, Hawkeye Community College, University of Northern Iowa and Allen College.
Cedar Valley Residents Are in Good Health
Northern Iowa residents don't have to travel far to find excellent hospitals in Cedar Valley.
How to Have Fun and Stay Fit in Iowa
Countless recreation activities allow residents to stay active year-round.
Waterloo, IA: Where to Live Now
5 Reasons to Call Cedar Valley, IA, Home
Why move to Cedar Valley? This collection of standout communities that include Waterloo and Cedar Falls have so much to offer.
Best Places To Live in Iowa
From Des Moines to Davenport, Iowa has numerous cities that are affordable and loaded with amenities and outdoor attractions. Check out our list!
13 Communities in the Cedar Valley, IA, to Consider
Find your perfect neighborhood in this thriving community.
Education, Careers and Opportunity in Waterloo, IA
Discover Cedar Valley’s Top-Notch Public Schools
Public schools in Cedar Valley, Iowa, shine with an impressive roster of academic, CTE and extracurricular offerings.
Cedar Valley Community Leaders Boost Business Growth
Cedar Valley community kicks off economic development strategies to grow businesses, elevate quality of life and preserve natural resources.
Empowering Students and Entrepreneurs in Cedar Valley
Organizations work to accelerate small-business growth in Waterloo, Cedar Falls, Waverly and the surrounding communities.
Waterloo, IA: Love Where You Live
Cedar Valley Developers Bring New Life into Historic Buildings
Developers in Cedar Valley, IA, are renovating historic buildings throughout the region.
Artists Can Find Their Creative Outlet in the Cedar Valley, Iowa
The vibrant Cedar Valley arts scene offers abundant opportunities to unleash your creativity in the region.
Why Cedar Valley, IA, is a Great Place to Live
This region in Northeast Iowa, which consists of Cedar Falls, Waterloo, Waverly and other great towns, stands out as the ultimate family-friendly destination.
Data used on Livability.com is provided from the most recent release (November 2025) by Applied Geographic Solutions (AGS). Our LivScore is calculated in partnership with AGS. Sales tax sources: Sales Tax Clearinghouse, Tax Foundation, and State Revenue Departments. Local rates are population-weighted to account for municipal variations.
