Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Cedar Rapids, IA
Thinking of relocating to Cedar Rapids, IA? With a population of 136,467, Cedar Rapids offers affordable living—median home prices are about $191,000 and average rent is $940. Commutes are short at just 18 minutes, and the city features reputable schools and two major hospitals. You’ll enjoy four distinct seasons, a reasonable cost of living, and a friendly, midwestern vibe. Check out detailed stats on housing, crime, income, and education below to help plan your move!
Demographics - Cedar Rapids, IA
Demographics - Cedar Rapids, IA
Cedar Rapids is home to approximately 136,467 residents, featuring a balanced gender ratio and a median age of 36.9 years. The city is predominantly White at over 80%, with a growing multicultural community and nearly 8% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. This blend offers a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers seeking a diverse yet accessible Midwestern city.
Population:
136,467
Density:
2,000 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.9
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
81.2%
Black:
7.1%
Asian:
2.7%
Others:
9.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Cedar Rapids, IA?
Living in Cedar Rapids is budget-friendly, with a cost of living index well below the national average at 87.2. Median home values are affordable at $191,000 and monthly rents average $940, making it a practical choice for both renters and homeowners. Utilities and transportation costs remain moderate, helping residents stretch their dollars further.
Median House Value:
$191,000
Gross Rent:
$940
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$114
Auto Insurance:
$1,020
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,275
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$480
State Taxes:
Low:
4.4%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
87.2
Grocery:
96.1
Housing:
70.3
Utilities:
97.6
Transportation:
91.2
Health Care:
100.3
Miscellaneous:
98.0
Crime
Is Cedar Rapids, IA a safe place to live?
Cedar Rapids maintains a moderate crime rate, with a 1 in 308 chance of experiencing a violent crime and a 1 in 41 chance for property crime. While property-related incidents are more common, the overall safety level is typical for a city its size. Residents benefit from active community policing and neighborhood awareness programs.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
324
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,468
Crime Index:
2,792
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 308
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 41
Weather
What is the weather like in Cedar Rapids, IA year-round?
Cedar Rapids experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 13°F and warm summers reaching highs of 84°F. The city enjoys about 52% sunny days annually and receives moderate rainfall, making it suitable for those who appreciate changing weather throughout the year. Residents can expect comfortable springs and crisp autumns as well.
Winter
Min:
13°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
63°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
64°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
The community in Cedar Rapids is middle-income, with a median household income of $64,800 and a family income of $82,200. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, and the average commute is a short 18 minutes. Low unemployment and a poverty rate just over 10% reflect a stable local economy.
Median Income:
$37,400
Household Income:
$64,800
Family Income:
$82,200
Per Capita Income:
$33,900
Income Male:
$47,800
Income Female:
$41,200
Poverty Rate:
10.1%
Non English Speakers:
7.8%
Rent:
$940
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
18.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.5%
Bachelors or More:
34.7%
Education
How are the schools in Cedar Rapids, IA?
Families in Cedar Rapids have access to a range of educational options, from highly regarded public schools like Kennedy High to private institutions such as Xavier High School. The city also hosts Kirkwood Community College and Coe College, providing strong opportunities for higher learning. Student-to-teacher ratios are favorable, supporting a personalized educational experience.
Public Schools
Name:
Kennedy High School
Street:
4545 Wenig Rd NE
Phone:
319-558-3406
Students:
1,700
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.1
Name:
Franklin Middle School
Street:
300 20th St NE
Phone:
319-558-2452
Students:
850
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.9
Private Schools
Name:
Xavier High School
Street:
6300 42nd St NE
Phone:
319-294-6635
Students:
725
Colleges
Name:
Kirkwood Community College
City:
Cedar Rapids
State:
IA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
11,500
Name:
Coe College
City:
Cedar Rapids
State:
IA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,400
Healthcare
Cedar Rapids boasts reliable healthcare, including two major hospitals—UnityPoint Health - St. Luke's and Mercy Medical Center—both offering emergency services. With 2.3 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 95% health insurance coverage, access to medical care is strong. The city's healthcare index reflects overall quality and availability in the region.
Major Hospitals
Name:
UnityPoint Health - St. Luke's Hospital
Address:
1026 A Ave NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
Phone:
(319) 369-7211
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Mercy Medical Center
Address:
701 10th St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403
Phone:
(319) 398-6011
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.7%
Health Care Index:
78.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Cedar Rapids, IA?
The Cedar Rapids housing market is attractive for buyers, with a median home price of $191,000 and a high owner-occupied rate of nearly 70%. Rental options are also widely available, with average two-bedroom rents at $940 and a healthy vacancy rate. The area has seen steady home value appreciation, making it a solid choice for investment.
Median Home Price:
$191,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$940
Owner Occupied Rate:
69.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the Iowa Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicle Division, located in nearby Ankeny. The DMV offers comprehensive online resources and support for new residents. Contact details and service information are easily accessible via the state's official website.
State:
Iowa
Department:
Iowa Department of Transportation - Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
6310 SE Convenience Blvd, Ankeny, IA 50021
Phone:
515-244-8725
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.