Moving To Cedar Rapids, IA – What You Need To Know
If you’re looking for epic things to do in Cedar Rapids, IA before you move there, this post is for you. First, some details about Cedar Rapids, to give you some context about the city!
Cedar Rapids, Iowa is a city with a population of over 130,000 residents. It is located in Eastern Iowa and is the second-largest city in the state.
Cedar Rapids is known for its vibrant arts community, outdoor recreation opportunities, and affordable cost of living. If you are considering moving to “The City of Five Seasons”, here’s our guide on things to do in Cedar Rapids, IA plus some helpful tips for living there.
Table Of Contents
- Moving To Cedar Rapids, IA – What You Need To Know
- Real Estate Market Overview
- Home Purchasing Cost in Cedar Rapids
- Renting Cost in Cedar Rapids
- Schools In Cedar Rapids, IA
- Cost Of Living In Cedar Rapids, IA
- Finding The Neighborhood For You: Some Tips
- Things To Do In Cedar Rapids, IA
- Things To Do in Cedar Rapids, IA With Kids
- Things To Eat In Cedar Rapids
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Real Estate Market Overview
For those looking to move to Cedar Rapids, you should know that its popularity is growing. According to RedFin, a real estate data website, Cedar Rapids’ housing market is getting more and more competitive.
The cost of homes has been rising in the last year and time on the market has been dropping. That said, if you aren’t looking to buy a home, an apartment might be a better fit for you anyway.
Regardless of what your plans are, here are some numbers to consider.
Home Purchasing Cost in Cedar Rapids
Finding consistent numbers for the median home price in Cedar Rapids is a little difficult. Across most real estate websites, it seems that you should expect to pay between $168,000-183,000.
In total, you’d be looking at about $112 per square foot. Location and the condition of the home will influence the cost, but, generally, Cedar Rapids is more affordable than most places.
If trends continue, however, home prices in Cedar Rapids will continue to rise. If you’re thinking of moving, now might be the time to look!
Renting Cost in Cedar Rapids
If you’re not ready to buy a home, renting is also a great option.
The average cost of renting an apartment in Cedar Rapids is between $835-$1,100. Similar to the increase in home purchasing prices, rental prices in Cedar Rapids have also increased in the past year.
That said, prices can change greatly depending on where you’re located in Cedar Rapids.
According to NeighborhoodScout, a website that collects data on cities and neighborhoods for prospective movers, the most expensive neighborhood in Cedar Rapids is in the Blairs Ferry/Millburn Road area.
Less expensive neighborhoods include Beaverville Park and Lincolnway Village.
According to a lot of discussions on r/CedarRapids, the housing market currently belongs to property owners. If there’s a space that catches your eye, you may want to reach out to the listing agency quickly.
Schools In Cedar Rapids, IA
If you’re a parent looking to move to Cedar Rapids and want to know about school options, there are several excellent choices. The Cedar Rapids Community School District is home to four high schools, six middle schools, 21 elementary schools, one virtual academy, and several special programs and options that serve over 16,000 students.
Niche.com, a neighborhood watch/city review website, calls Cedar Rapids, IA “one of the best places to live in Iowa” and says that “the public school systems in Cedar Rapids are above average”.
If you’re interested in private schools or public schools, there are also many private school options. In general, Cedar Rapids also has very high graduation rates.
For those looking for higher education institutions, Coe College, Kirkwood Community College, and Mount Mercy University are both located in Cedar Rapids.
Cost Of Living In Cedar Rapids, IA
If the housing market prices sound good to you, here are some other cost of living details.
Cedar Rapids ranks lower than the national average across the board for living expenses. Payscale.com, a cost of living estimator, says that Cedar Rapids ranks 9% lower than the national average for almost everything, minus transportation and healthcare costs (only 1% and 2% higher than the national average).
Cedar Rapids housing is a whopping 25% lower than the national average, while utility costs are around 4% lower than the national average.
Cedar Rapids, like much of the United States, is pretty car-centric. This pushes transportation costs up slightly since gas is a little more expensive there. There are public transportation options as well.
The only thing that ranks higher than the national average is healthcare costs (again, only 2% higher than the national average). In practice, that means slightly more expensive doctor and dentist appointments and more expensive prescriptions after those appointments.
Regardless of your lifestyle, it’s a good idea to factor some flexibility into your moving budget. There are lots of things to do in Cedar Rapids, and you’ll want the cash to have fun in your new community.
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Finding The Neighborhood For You: Some Tips
As we mentioned before, Cedar Rapids is a growing city full of neighborhoods each with its own vibe. If you’re planning to move to Cedar Rapids, but don’t know where to start, we have some tips to help you get settled.
First, check real estate and neighborhood watch websites that we’ve previously mentioned: NeighborhoodScout and Niche offer detailed statistics and descriptions of potential neighborhoods. A lot of websites like these also have a review page where residents, transplants, and locals can comment about their thoughts and complaints.
Make sure to take reviews with a grain of salt. Not everyone living in Cedar Rapids has left a review, and there’s likely going to be at least a couple of extreme opinions.
Similarly, you may want to check out the discussion boards on Reddit for ongoing, real-time discussions about a place. It’s also possible to directly message other users about questions you have and get personal insight. Be cautious about who you engage with though. Some users can be incredibly helpful, but it’s good to do some self-moderating if you choose to participate. Your best bet at getting helpful information is searching with a specific question in mind.
It’s also a great idea to join a Facebook group, check out the city government and economic websites, and follow the city on social media to get a feel for the place.
Alternatively, if you check out the actual streetscape of a neighborhood, the Google Maps Street View tool is super useful–just check the date on the pictures to make sure they’re relevant.
If you get the chance, however, we’d recommend taking a trip to Cedar Rapids. The best way to get to know a place is by spending time with the people who live there.
Things To Do In Cedar Rapids, IA
If you do get a chance to visit before a move, or you’re just visiting, there are lots of things to do in Cedar Rapids.
The city has a vibrant arts scene, with several theaters and museums, as well as several parks and trails. Don’t forget to indulge in Cedar Rapids’ rich history too. Ashlyn Cook, a UniMovers superstar, and a current Cedar Rapids resident has some of her own recommendations.
“Cedar Rapids is honestly just one of those cities you have to experience before you make a snap judgment. I think it’s a great city to live in but I can see how it wouldn’t be someone’s favorite to visit. BUT there are a lot of great things to see while you’re here. One of my favorite things to do is go to the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art and look through their rotating exhibits. You can visit the Grant Wood Studio and see pieces by Marvin Cone as well, two locals to Cedar Rapids that garner national recognition.”
Make sure to give Cedar Rapids a fair chance. Here are some other great recommendations for things to do in Cedar Rapids!
Visit the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art
If you’re an art lover, you won’t want to miss the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art. This museum houses an impressive collection of American art, including works by Grant Wood, the famous artist who was born and raised in Cedar Rapids. You’ll also find works by other notable artists, such as Marvin Cone, Bertha Jaques, and Mauricio Lasansky. The museum offers a variety of programs and events, including lectures, tours, and workshops, so be sure to check their calendar before you go.
Explore the Indian Creek Nature Center
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to the Indian Creek Nature Center. This 290-acre nature preserve offers miles of hiking trails, scenic vistas, and plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing. You can also participate in educational programs and workshops, attend special events, or simply relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Take a Stroll Through the Czech Village
For a taste of Cedar Rapids’ rich cultural heritage, head to Czech Village. This historic neighborhood is home to a number of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, including the National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library. You can also take a stroll through the neighborhood’s charming streets, admire the colorful architecture, and sample some traditional Czech cuisine.
Things To Do in Cedar Rapids, IA With Kids
Check Out the Ushers Ferry Historic Village
Ushers Ferry Historic Village is a living history museum that offers a glimpse into life in the 1800s. Kids can explore the village and see what life was like for settlers in Iowa. They can visit the blacksmith shop, the schoolhouse, and even a general store. The village also hosts special events throughout the year, including an annual Civil War reenactment.
Head To NewBo
Cedar Rapids’ New Bohemia district is just outside of downtown. The NewBo Market lives there and houses tons of small business owners, sharing their wares. Let the kids walk around and explore the market, then head to one of Cedar Rapids’ many local restaurants to grab a bite to eat (if you didn’t already find something in the market that is)!
Get The Energy Out
If you need an energy burner, check out The Fun Station in Cedar Rapids. Aimed at younger audiences, The Fun Station is an indoor jungle gym and arcade complete with all sorts of entertainment options for kids. Tickets range from $12-$30 depending on what activities your kids are interested in.
Things To Eat In Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids has a vibrant food scene with a variety of cuisines and dining options. Whether you are a local or visiting the city, you are sure to find something tasty to eat. Below are our top picks for dining options in Cedar Rapids. To browse even more restaurants, check out Restaurantji’s guide.
Mexican Cuisine – La Regia Taqueria
If you are looking for some delicious Mexican food, La Regia Taqueria is a must-visit. This restaurant serves authentic Mexican cuisine, including tacos, burritos, and tortas. One of their most popular dishes is the Al Pastor taco, which is made with marinated pork and pineapple. The restaurant has a casual ambiance, and the prices are very reasonable.
Breakfast and Brunch – The Breakfast House
The Breakfast House is a popular breakfast and brunch spot in Cedar Rapids. They serve traditional breakfast dishes like pancakes and omelets, as well as more unique options like breakfast tacos and beignets. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, and the staff is friendly and welcoming. If you are a fan of coffee, be sure to try their locally roasted coffee.
Fine Dining – Cobble Hill
Cobble Hill is a fine dining restaurant located in the New Bohemia neighborhood of Cedar Rapids. The restaurant serves contemporary American cuisine, and the menu changes frequently to reflect the seasonality of ingredients. The dishes are beautifully presented, and the flavors are exquisite. The restaurant has an elegant ambiance, and the service is impeccable.
+ A Local Recommendation – Burger Time!
If none of those suit your needs, or you really want a favorite local spot, this is Ashlyn’s recommendation: “I’m a big foodie so I appreciate the local grub, which, fun fact, now outnumbers the number of chain restaurants in the city. How cool is that?! My favorite place to dine is Tornadoes Grub & Pub. If you’re a burger junkie like me, get the F4 (F4 Hot if you can handle the spice). You won’t be disappointed.”
Conclusion
If you are considering moving to Cedar Rapids Iowa, you will find a welcoming community, affordable cost of living, and plenty of things to do. With its vibrant arts scene, outdoor recreation opportunities, and excellent schools, Cedar Rapids is an extraordinary place to call home.
The city couldn’t come up with more shining recommendations. Ashlyn, when asked about how she likes living in Cedar Rapids said this: “This small Iowa city has really won me over in the three years I’ve lived here. You’ve got everything from minor league sports to local arts to cute shopping districts. I’d highly recommend it for anyone looking to catch the city scene without overpopulation and insane commutes. This community truly looks to take care of its own.”
FAQs
Cedar Rapids is a city with a population of over 130,000 residents. It is located in Eastern Iowa and is the second-largest city in the state.
Generally, it seems that most homes are listed between $168,000-183,000.
The average cost of renting an apartment in Cedar Rapids is between $835-$1,100.
It depends on your budget, but the cost of living in Cedar Rapids is lower than the national average. It’s generally regarded as a very affordable city option.
The Indian Creek Nature Center is a great place to enjoy the outdoors, alone or with family!
If you like Mexican food, La Regia Taqueria is a great spot to stop!
Grace currently lives in Nashville, TN. She grew up in the Southeastern United States and graduated from College of Charleston, in Charleston, South Carolina. Her degree is in Political Science with a focus in International Relations, but she has a passion for all things communication and writing.
