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Best Places To Live in Iowa

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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!

By Livability on October 4, 2023

Downtown Des Moines skyline and Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway bridge
iStock/Davel5957
Downtown Des Moines, Iowa skyline and Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway bridge.

Do you want to live in a state rich with small-town charm, local food and inviting communities? Iowa could be the right place for you. People from all walks of life, from millennials and young professionals to growing families and retirees, are flocking to The Hawkeye State to enjoy its low cost of living and low crime rates. Combined with its diversity in educational and economic opportunities, as well as its remarkable array of outdoor activities for the casual adventurer to passionate thrill seeker, this state has it all. You don’t even have to worry about finding the best places to live in Iowa. We’ve done the research and compiled a list of the top cities to call home.

Ames

Ames, Story County, IA
Darla Knutson/Story County Conservation
Explore the beautiful parks of Ames and Story County, IA.

What makes Ames a great place to live in Iowa? 

With a population hovering around 65,000 people, Ames offers residents that perfect balance of small-town charm and city amenities. Residents here benefit from everything their centrally located town offers, including a thriving economy, quality health care, highly rated schools and ample green space. Because Ames is home to Iowa State University and its 30,000 students, you can expect to encounter people of all ages and backgrounds when you live. As an added bonus, the cultural perks of living in a college town mean you can readily find fun places to eat, shop and play when you need a little break from your regular routine. And, as many students will tell you, Ames is so special that many students stay to plant roots following graduation.

Medical prowess and outdoor recreation are among the top reasons non-students flock to this scenic city. Ames is considered the “medical hub” of several surrounding counties and offers accessible, top-notch health care services thanks to a growing pool of medical professionals. As far as outdoor recreation is concerned, students and permanent residents alike enjoy the four distinct seasons in Iowa, which affords plenty of chances to get outside and enjoy the city’s 38 parks, 55 miles of biking trails, array of golf courses and nearly 200 wellness programs offered by the Parks and Recreation Department. When winter rolls around, plenty of indoor activities are available through the Community Center and Ames/ISU Ice Arena.

What is Ames known for?

Ames is best known as the home to Iowa State University. While there are countless degree programs available to ISU students, the ones most commonly recognized include agriculture, design, engineering and veterinary medicine. Plus, the university’s location provides Ames with a direct pipeline of local talent to choose from. It doesn’t hurt that the school is often described as having one of the most beautiful campuses in the country. It’s also worth noting that Iowa State University is home to Ames Laboratory, a United States Department of Energy national lab. 

Read more about living in Ames, IA.

Cedar Falls

Cedar Valley Cyclists cruise along a road in Cedar Valley, IA. Miles of trails make Cedar Valley one of the best places to live in Iowa.
©Journal Communications/Jonathan David Sabin
Cedar Valley Cyclists cruise along a road in Cedar Valley, IA.

Cedar Falls is a best place to live in Iowa.

Tucked away in the heart of Black Hawk County, Cedar Falls is often recognized as being home to the University of Northern Iowa, a school that ranked second in the “Top Public Schools Regional University (Midwest)” category from U.S. News & World Report. The university’s 90 majors and more than 200 clubs and organizations offer students plenty of opportunity to learn, grow and connect without the downfalls that often come with larger universities. In fact, several students, staff and residents affectionately call UNI a “right-sized university” thanks to its smaller class sizes and commitment to providing the best education possible.

While students make up a generous portion of the city population, Cedar Falls is home to more than its university. With several unique neighborhoods and a diverse economy, there are plenty of reasons to call Cedar Falls home. Residents enjoy a slew of activities and events throughout the year, ranging from the usual pleasures of local shops and movie theatres to the more unusual activities such as hatchet throwing (yes, you read that right) and collecting stamps along the Cedar Falls Beer Trail. Outdoor enthusiasts also enjoy spending their downtime hoofing it along the city’s more than 130 miles of trails or kayaking along the waterways. Even more? Cedar Falls maintains an affordable cost of livingexcellent health care options close to home and an inclusive (and creative!) community, handily making it one of the best places to live in Iowa.   

What is the history of Cedar Falls?

Formerly named Sturgis Falls after one of its original residents, William Sturgis, Cedar Falls initially appealed to its earliest settlers because of its rich farmland, timber offerings and all the benefits associated with a location on the Cedar River. John and Dempsey Overman and John Barrick purchased the community from the Sturgis family in 1850, renamed it Cedar Falls, and aided in the development and growth of the area. The population more than doubled in size in five years and saw the addition of a post office (1850), schoolhouse (1853) and railroad connection (1861). The Civil War Soldier’s Orphan Home was built and established in 1863, which is better known today as the location of the University of Northern Iowa. 

Read more about living in Cedar Falls, IA.

Cedar Rapids

A couple walks out of the Sykora Bakery in Czech Village in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
©Journal Communications/Nathan Lambrecht
A couple walks out of the Sykora Bakery in Czech Village in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Cedar Rapids is a best city in Iowa. 

Cedar Rapids is the perfect place to put down roots if you want a place to dine, shop and play in the heart of Eastern Iowa. Better known as an arts and cultural hub thanks to its renowned theater, live musical performances and quality museums, this town has something to offer the whole family. Residents like to pass the time cheering on their local baseball and hockey teams, exploring the city’s burgeoning craft brewery scene and local food and attending one of the countless events and activities put on by the city throughout all four seasons. 

It’s nearly impossible to recount all the ways you could spend your time in this scenic city. But if you had to narrow down the possibilities, consider exploring places such as The National Czech & Slovak Museum and Library, taste testing one of the many experimental brews at Lion Bridge Brewing Company or taking a gander at the farmer’s market at NewBo City Market. If you’d rather soak up the sun, consider hiking the trails at Palisades-Kepler State Park or strapping on your helmet and biking through Beverly Park. 

What is Cedar Rapids known for?

Cedar Rapids is known for being the largest corn-processing city not only in the United States but the entire world. It also has a reputation as one of the leading manufacturing regions in the country and one of the leading bio-processing and food ingredient centers in all of North America. But that’s not all. Businesses in Cedar Rapids thrive, and it’s a great place for young professionals to launch their careers. Also, Cedar Rapids is known as the Lip Balm Capital of the World!

Read more about living in Cedar Rapids, IA.

Council Bluffs

The Loess Hills Scenic Overlook in Council Bluffs, Iowa.
©Journal Communications/Colin Conces
The Loess Hills Scenic Overlook in Council Bluffs, Iowa.

Council Bluffs is a great place to live in Iowa. 

If you’re looking for a place to put down roots that offers that beloved Midwestern charm, keeps you close to the Omaha metro area and provides ample entertainment on the weekends, Council Bluffs has your name written all over it. This growing city has something to offer everyone. Those seeking to spend as much time as possible outdoors will appreciate the natural beauty of the Loess Hills, Lake Manawa and the Missouri River, as well as the myriad of trails and recreational spaces that highlight them. Lovers of art can while away the hours exploring any number of the city’s popular art galleries. And if you want to indulge in a little Council Bluffs localism, you could always spend your weekend perusing the various shops, restaurants and markets available in the city’s historic 100 Block. 

The cost of living in Council Bluffs is about 2 percent higher than the rest of the state. But compared to the national average, this amenity-rich city is about 8 percent lower than the rest of the country. Housing comes in about 16 percent lower than the U.S. average, and utilities are more affordable as well. With the extra money in the budget, residents have more financial freedom to invest in the local community, save for the future or explore the city and everything its surrounding counties have to offer. 

What is the history of Council Bluffs?

Council Bluff boasts a shimmering history of Western pioneers, indigenous nations, fur traders and military figures. During his term, Abraham Lincoln even recognized the city’s location’s benefit as the transcontinental railroad’s eastern boundary. Perhaps one of the more exciting tidbits about Council Bluff’s history is its role in the Lewis and Clark expedition. The team stayed at White Catfish Camp, better known by its modern name, Long’s Landing, for almost a week before meeting with tribes just north of Omaha. The “council in the bluffs,” as it is commonly known, provided the basis of the city’s name. 

Read more about living in Council Bluffs, IA.

Des Moines

Downtown Des Moines skyline and Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway bridge
iStock/Davel5957
Downtown Des Moines skyline and Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway bridge.

What makes Des Moines a great place to live in Iowa?

Need a list of reasons to move to Des Moines? We can innumerate those reasons all day long. Des Moines is often complimented on its elegant architecture and bustling downtown. Several studies, reports and citizens are also quick to tell you about the community’s friendliness. The inviting nature of the community could also have something to do with the city’s strong job market. Many young professionals are drawn to the city thanks to its growing economy and start-ups, as well as its market for insurance agents. In fact, the city is home to more than 80 insurance companies, including Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield, EMC Insurance and Nationwide/Allied Insurance. 

The cost of living in Des Moines goes hand-in-hand with these residential advantages. According to U.S. News, housing prices in the area are “well below the national median,” and the cost of living is generously below the national average. Paired with the beautiful homes on the market, outdoor recreation and a slew of shops, restaurants (Des Moines is a foodies dream!), coffee shops and bars in downtown Des Moines, it’s no surprise that people of all ages are eager to put down roots here. 

What are some fun things to do in Des Moines?

Those unacquainted with Des Moines are often surprised by the variety of activities and fun available in the city and its surrounding areas. The Des Moines Downtown Farmer’s Market runs from May through October, offering everything from garden produce and local art to baked goods and handicrafts. The Des Moines Art Center is home to innumerable paintings, sculptures and modern art, and the list of seasonal festivals is long enough to warrant its own novella. The city was even internationally recognized by the International Festivals & Events Association (IFEA) for being a great city for events and festivals. 

Read more about living in Des Moines, IA.

Davenport

Davenport skyline along the banks of the Mississippi River
iStock/DenisTangneyJr
Davenport, Iowa, skyline along the banks of the Mississippi River.

Davenport is a best city to live in Iowa.

Often associated with its location along the river, Davenport is a middle-sized city with a steady, diversified economic market downtown and a thriving agricultural border. Davenport has many beautiful neighborhoods to choose from for any new residents interested in becoming homeowners. Their top-notch school system and inviting people make it an easy enough place to establish deep and rich connections within the community. Paired with the low cost of living compared to the national average, a move to Davenport might just be the best decision you could make. 

Davenport claims more than 200 sunny days per year and four distinct seasons, making it a great place to enjoy the great outdoors. Biking trails, sports camps, boat tours, duck tours, nature and wildlife abound in this Iowa city. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the opportunities to kayak and paddleboard along the Mississippi River water trails in the summer and sled, ice skate and snowshoe when winter rolls around. You can even hit up the myriad of winter festivals and events available in winter, such as Icestravaganza and Winter Nights Winter Lights. 

Need to know where to eat in Davenport?

Home to just over 100,000 people, it’s no wonder Davenport is packed with culinary treasures. Downtown haunts range from high-end restaurants, farm-to-table eateries and bars to cozy breweries and pubs. You can find charming cafes and outdoor dining destinations, as well as dishes that range from farm-to-table to exotic and experimental. Enjoy a craft brew and games at Analog Arcade Bar, book a candlelit dinner at Duck City Bistro or woo a date with the seasonal dishes at Raw. 

Read more about living in Davenport, IA.

Dubuque

Downtown view at night of Dubuque, IA, one of the best places to live in Iowa.
iStock/bscottberg
Downtown view at night of Dubuque, IA.

Dubuque is a great place to live in Iowa.

Located on the Mississippi River and home to numerous cultural and outdoor attractions, Dubuque is growing in popularity among those seeking a new place to set down roots. The low cost of living and affordable housing market, both of which come in below the state and national averages, mean residents can spend more time investing in the local economy. It also means there are ample opportunities for first-time homebuyers and young professionals looking to build their careers, particularly within the area’s major industries, including advanced manufacturing, health care and agribusiness. 

The city has more than enough appeal for anyone looking to fill their nights and weekends with attractions and activities. The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium is a family favorite, while the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens capture the hearts of anyone interested in natural beauty. There are plenty of historic sites and museums to intrigue those keen on learning more about the area’s past, as well as ample parks and green spaces for the ones eager to spend as much time as possible in the fresh Midwestern air.

Is Dubuque an affordable place to live?

The cost of living is arguably one of the main reasons people want to move to Dubuque. Nearly everything in this city, including housing, is more affordable than the state and national average. The financial freedom this affords new residents is an understandable draw to young professionals hoping to launch their careers or start their own families. It also doesn’t hurt that the city offers its residents the right combination of quality health care, childhood education systems and cultural attractions. Layer on the outdoor amenities and natural beauty, and you can understand why people consider Dubuque one of the best places to live in Iowa. 

Read more about living in Dubuque, IA.

Iowa City

The Old Capitol building on the Pentacrest on the campus of the University of Iowa, in Iowa City, Iowa.
iStock/FreeTransform
The Old Capitol building on the Pentacrest on the campus of the University of Iowa.

Iowa City is a best city to live in Iowa.

In addition to being the home of the Hawkeyes and the location of the state’s first capital, Iowa City offers a thriving arts and culture scene, numerous educational opportunities for students and graduates and the right combination of small town and big city charm. Visitors also find it easy to fall in love with this thriving pocket of the state thanks to its abundance of outdoor gems, such as the Macbride Nature Recreation Area and its intriguing Raptor Center, Terry Trueblood Recreation Area and its water activities and The Devonian Fossil Gorge with its myriad of geological treasures. 

Young families can find plenty of things to do no matter the age of their children. Residents love spending their mornings at the Coralville Public Library or picking up sweet treats at Cookies and Dreams. The Iowa Children’s Museum is a great weekend outing for children seeking to stretch their imaginations and participate in a range of programs that delight and inspire. Iowa City is also home to various farms and agritourism destinations, encouraging residents to get outdoors all season long and enjoy everything Iowa farms and orchards offer. 

Is Iowa City a college town?

Iowa City often ranks among the top college towns in the country, even coming in fifth, according to the American Institute for Economic Research. It probably has something to do with all the goings-on within the community, such as the thriving arts and culture scene. Catch a classic at FilmScene, meet up with friends at the historic Englert Theatre or take a date to one of the many downtown venues for a night of drinks and live musical performances. And the University of Iowa has one of the most beloved traditions in college football — the Hawkeye Wave — tying the entire community together. More and more students are staying in Iowa City after graduation and planting roots in this thriving city.

Read more about living in Iowa City, IA.

Marshalltown

Marshalltown Postcard Mural on Thompson True Value by Jimmy Navarro
Marshalltown COC
Marshalltown Postcard Mural on Thompson True Value by Jimmy Navarro.

Marshalltown is a best city in Iowa.

Marshalltown may be a small town, but it has developed quite a reputation for its quaint downtown and family-friendly atmosphere. Despite having a population of just 27,000 people, the city has endless outdoor activities, including 24 parks and more than 9 miles of recreational trails for residents to walk, run and cycle. You can even take advantage of the city golf courses and swimming pools. Families also enjoy making weekend excursions to Sand Lake, tucked away on the city’s northern edge and offering plenty of space for picnics, fishing and getting out on the water. 

One draw of Marshalltown that stands out among the rest is the city’s Retail Incentive Grant. This unique program is designed to draw new businesses and entrepreneurs into the city and is willing to offer financial incentives of up to $25,000 to help them get started. Combined with the area’s thriving health care servicesdelicious dining scene and low cost of living, it’s easy to see why this small town is catching the eye of people all over the state, region and country.

What is there to do in Marshalltown? 

The rolling hills and farmland may look a little on the sleepy side, but there are actually plenty of things to do in Marshalltown. From the Cartwright Downtown Farmers’ Market that gathers every Wednesday and Saturday during the summer to the historic sites such as Mowry Irvine Mansion and Glick-Sower Historical House, this slower-paced town offers a surprising number of curiosities for those willing to seek them out. When you want a little fresh air, the Grimes Farm and Conversation Center is a local treasure ripe with public programs, outdoor concerts and a variety of local flora and wildlife. 

Read more about living in Marshalltown, IA.

Sioux City

Sunset over Veteran's Memorial Bridge in Sioux City, IA, over the Missouri River. Sioux City is one of the best places to live in Iowa.
iStock/Matthew Howieson
Sunset over Veteran’s Memorial Bridge in Sioux City over the Missouri River.

What makes Sioux City a great place to live in Iowa?

Sioux City has received the title of All-America City by the National Civic League not once but twice. It’s easy enough to understand why. The city acts as a regional hub for not only business and trade but health care, education and tourism for all of Northwest Iowa, as well as Northeast Nebraska and Southeast South Dakota. It’s drawn nearly 170,000 people to the area with its innumerable offerings, ranging from outdoor music festivals in the park, sports games for baseball, hockey and indoor football, and its diversity of attractions that attract all ages and interests, ranging from the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino to the LaunchPAD Children’s Museum. 

If you want to live somewhere that not only provides you with everything you need to enjoy a high-quality life and plenty of fun-filled weekends throughout the year but also regularly receives accolades and national acclaim, you’ve definitely found it. Sioux City has earned titles such as #1 for Economic Development, #5 Trendiest City in the U.S. Where You Can Still Afford to Buy a Home and #3 Most Livable Small City in the U.S. Tack on the new 9 million dollar aviation facility, the flight school, an affordable cost of living and deep investment in revitalizing downtown, and you can easily see why Sioux City is a great place to live. 

What is Sioux City known for?

Sometimes called the Siouxland region or Sioux City metropolitan statistical area, Sioux City is firmly planted in Iowa but makes up five counties in three states — Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota. Due to its strategic location, residents enjoy a wide range of amenities and attractions. There are numerous well-loved local restaurants, plenty of summer music festivals, a variety of live theatrical performances, major sporting events and about 70 miles of trails to walk, run or bike. 

Read more about living in Sioux City, IA.

Waterloo

Looking across the Cedar River at downtown Waterloo, Iowa
iStock/Jacob Nichols
Looking across the Cedar River at downtown Waterloo, Iowa.

Waterloo is a best place to live in Iowa.

Often described as a charming small town with big city amenities, Waterloo tends to surprise visitors with its numerous family-friendly activities, generous business climate and abundance of indoor and outdoor events, activities and attractions. Residents enjoy taking advantage of the city’s expansive trail systemvibrant art scene, impressive museum district and more than 40 local downtown restaurants. Living here also means you have a front-row seat to nearly a dozen major annual festivals, such as the Iowa Irish Fest. Summer also invites the locals to spend the weekends splashing away at Lost Island, one of the top-rated water parks in the country. 

If you’re keen to find a little R&R in nature, you can spend the day on the more than 100 miles of trails available at Cedar Valley Trails, soaking up the sun at Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens or taking a family trip to one of the area’s many farms, such as Honey Creek Creamery or Hansen’s Farm Fresh Dairy. Anyone interested in agriculture will also appreciate the wealth of information available at the John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum and the National Farm Toy Museum.

Waterloo was named one of the top cities positioned for economic development in the new decade by LendEDU in 2020. The city already boasts John Deere, Tyson and GMAC among its list of major employers. Combined with its low cost of living, accessible workforce and a regional airport with international connections, Waterloo is understandably catching the eyes of other businesses and corporations who are on the hunt for a home base or expansion opportunity. The city also offers “impressive incentives” to existing and potential businesses that invite more economic growth and career opportunities to the area and its residents.  

Read more about living in Waterloo, IA.

Thinking of Moving to Iowa?

Finding a great place to live in Iowa doesn’t have to be a chore. We have more resources for moving to Iowa and other best places to live in the Midwest. This heartland hotspot is full of things to do outdoorsdelicious dining optionsaccessible health care providers and it is a great place to find your perfect career. No matter where you want to live, we can help you decide where to move and discover the best places to live in the U.S.

Best Places To Live Near Iowa

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