Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Iowa City, IA
Considering a move to Iowa City, IA? With a vibrant population of about 74,600 and a youthful median age, Iowa City is a lively college town with reasonable housing—median home prices around $295,000 and average rents of $1,130. Residents enjoy a moderate cost of living, excellent public schools, and a quick average commute of just 17 minutes. The city boasts top-tier healthcare, a robust education scene centered around the University of Iowa, and a welcoming community with four distinct seasons and plenty of sunny days.
Demographics - Iowa City, IA
Demographics - Iowa City, IA
Iowa City is home to around 74,600 residents, characterized by a youthful median age of 26.9 and a diverse community with 14.2% non-English speakers. The city’s population density and balanced gender ratio create an energetic and inclusive atmosphere, reflecting its status as a vibrant college town.
Population:
74,596
Density:
2,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
26.9
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
14.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
76.5%
Black:
7.7%
Asian:
8.5%
Others:
7.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Iowa City, IA?
Iowa City offers a moderate cost of living, with median home values near $295,000 and average monthly rents around $1,130. Utilities and groceries are also affordably priced, making the city accessible for both renters and homeowners.
Median House Value:
$295,000
Gross Rent:
$1,130
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,110
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,680
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$565
State Taxes:
Low:
4.4%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
96.4
Grocery:
95.2
Housing:
92.8
Utilities:
98.6
Transportation:
94.1
Health Care:
97.3
Miscellaneous:
98.8
Crime
Is Iowa City, IA a safe place to live?
Residents experience a relatively low rate of violent crime, with about 252 incidents per 100,000 people, while property crime is somewhat more common. The city's overall safety profile makes it a comfortable place for families and students alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
252
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,101
Crime Index:
2,353
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 397
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 48
Weather
What is the weather like in Iowa City, IA year-round?
Iowa City features four distinct seasons, with cold winters dipping to 14°F and warm summers reaching up to 85°F. The city receives about 36.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on over half its days, offering a balanced Midwest climate.
Winter
Min:
14°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
66°F
Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
53%
Neighbors
The community boasts a strong educational background, with over 96% holding a high school diploma and 57% earning a bachelor’s degree or higher. Median household income stands at $54,700, and residents benefit from low unemployment and short average commutes of just under 17 minutes.
Median Income:
$28,600
Household Income:
$54,700
Family Income:
$89,400
Per Capita Income:
$30,900
Income Male:
$41,500
Income Female:
$33,100
Poverty Rate:
22.6%
Non English Speakers:
14.2%
Rent:
$1,130
Unemployment Rate:
2.7%
Public Transport Usage:
4.1%
Commute Time:
16.6 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
96.1%
Bachelors or More:
57.3%
Education
How are the schools in Iowa City, IA?
Iowa City is known for its excellent education system, highlighted by the University of Iowa and strong public and private schools. With a variety of educational options and a significant student population, the city fosters a vibrant learning environment.
Public Schools
Name:
Iowa City High School
Street:
1900 Morningside Dr
Phone:
319-688-1040
Students:
1,575
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Name:
Ernest Horn Elementary School
Street:
600 Koser Ave
Phone:
319-688-1115
Students:
510
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.7
Private Schools
Name:
Regina Catholic Education Center
Street:
2140 Rochester Ave
Phone:
319-337-2580
Students:
820
Colleges
Name:
University of Iowa
City:
Iowa City
State:
IA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
30,000
Name:
Kirkwood Community College – Iowa City Campus
City:
Iowa City
State:
IA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
2,500
Healthcare
Iowa City provides access to top medical facilities, including the renowned University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics and Mercy Iowa City. With 94.8% health insurance coverage and a high number of physicians per capita, residents enjoy comprehensive and reliable healthcare services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics
Address:
200 Hawkins Dr, Iowa City, IA 52242
Phone:
(319) 356-1616
Type:
General & Teaching
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Mercy Iowa City
Address:
500 E Market St, Iowa City, IA 52245
Phone:
(319) 339-0300
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.8%
Health Care Index:
78.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Iowa City, IA?
The housing market in Iowa City is balanced, featuring a median home price of $295,000 and average two-bedroom rents of $1,130. Nearly half of residents own their homes, while a steady home appreciation rate indicates a healthy local market.
Median Home Price:
$295,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,130
Owner Occupied Rate:
47.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
2.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Vehicle and licensing services are managed by the Iowa Department of Transportation, located in nearby Ankeny. Residents can access DMV resources both in person and online for a convenient experience.
State:
Iowa
Department:
Iowa Department of Transportation
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.