If you’re considering a move to Iowa, you might be wondering if it’s a good place to live. It’s important to ease your concerns for a successful move to Iowa. The Cedar Rapids-Iowa City corridor stands out as a top living destination, offering a blend of affordability, education, accessibility, recreation, and culture. Read on to discover what Iowa City and Cedar Rapids are known for and determine whether or not the Cedar Rapids-Iowa City corridor is a good place to live.
Table of Contents
Affordability
Iowa City and Cedar Rapids are attractive options for those seeking a low cost of living. Iowa City has a cost of living index of 89.6 making their cost of living 10.4% lower than the national average. Cedar Rapids has a cost of living index of 81.8 making their cost of living 18.2% lower than the national average.
Affordable housing options further enhance the appeal for prospective residents. A typical home in Iowa City costs $265,800, which is 21.4% less expensive than the national average. A typical home in Cedar Rapids costs $184,900, which is 45.3% less expensive than the national average.
These prices are notably lower than in many metropolitan areas, making living in the Cedar Rapids-Iowa City corridor a good place to live for families, professionals, and students. Iowa City and Cedar Rapids are known for their affordability for residents, offering a cost-effective living environment.
Colleges and Education
The Cedar Rapids-Iowa City area has both public and private school districts, including some of the largest in Iowa. Among these, the Iowa City Community School District stands out, ranking as the 4th largest school district in Iowa. Its network of educational facilities has preschool sites, elementary schools, junior high schools, comprehensive high schools, an alternative high school, and an online school. Additionally, the Transition Services Center provides specialized education for students aged 18-21 with special needs.
The Cedar Rapids School District is known for ranking among the best school districts in Cedar Rapids. It is also one of the largest school districts in Iowa with four high schools, six middle schools, and twenty-one elementary schools. In addition to these districts, there are several others in the area, including College Community, Linn-Mar, Center Point-Urbana, Clear Creek Amana, Solon, Marion, Benton, and Grinnell.
Iowa City is widely recognized for its strong educational focus, due to the presence of the University of Iowa. The university offers many programs, attracting students, researchers, and faculty from around the globe. Iowa City also offers accessible educational programs like Kirkwood Regional Center at the University of Iowa. These options all contribute to the city’s comprehensive education system.
Cedar Rapids has a variety of educational opportunities available for residents. The city is home to some of the best colleges in Iowa, like Coe College and Mount Mercy University. Kirkwood Community College’s main campus offers affordable options with various degrees and certifications offered.
Location, Airports, and Transportation
The corridor is conveniently located in the heart of the Midwest, offering great opportunities for road trips. The Cedar Rapids-Iowa City area is close to major metropolitan areas like Minneapolis, Chicago, St. Louis, and Omaha, all within a five-hour drive.
If driving isn’t your style, the Cedar Rapids-Iowa City corridor offers convenient access to the Eastern Iowa Airport in Cedar Rapids. CID partners with major airlines like Allegiant, United, Frontier, American, and Delta, offering nonstop flights to destinations such as Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, Orlando, and more. Whether for business or leisure, Eastern Iowa Airport ensures convenient travel experiences for Iowans.
Iowa City and Cedar Rapids offer great resources for those seeking transit options within the cities. CAMBUS, the University of Iowa’s public transit system, offers free bus services throughout the campus and is open to the general public. In addition, Iowa City Transit expands the options with a variety of routes in the area. Cedar Rapids contributes to the appeal of the corridor by offering the Cedar Rapids bus service. One noteworthy addition is the 380 Express, a bus service servicing the Cedar Rapids-Iowa City corridor. These efficient and affordable transportation options make commuting a breeze for residents in the area.
Recreation
There is plenty to explore in the Cedar Rapids-Iowa City area, where a range of activities await recreation enthusiasts. In Iowa City, the University of Iowa offers wellness facilities and programs for all ages, complemented by nearby parks and recreational areas. The campus is conveniently located close to recreational services like the Campus Recreation and Wellness Center, aquatics, golf, tennis, and rowing facilities.
Closer to Cedar Rapids are over 100 miles of trails and various parks for a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Notable highlights include the Indian Creek Nature Center, Palisades-Kepler State Park, Old MacDonald’s Farm in Bever Park, and the Cedar River Trail all great options to spend the day running, walking, or biking.
Discover the many natural gems like Lake McBride State Park in Solon, Coralville Lake, Devonian Fossil Gorge, and FW Kent Park just 3 miles west of Tiffin, IA. The diverse range of choices makes the Cedar Rapids-Iowa City area a good place to live for outdoor enthusiasts seeking parks, trails, and lakes to enjoy.
Additionally, thriving sports teams, clubs, and activities add to this dynamic region. Cedar Rapids is home to the Iowa Raptors FC, the Cedar Rapids Kernels, and Rough Riders. Iowa City is home to the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Iowa Heartlanders, making this region a hotspot for sports fans.
After a day filled with cheering on your favorite sports teams, unwind and relax at PinSeekers, the perfect spot for downtime. Located conveniently in Tiffin, IA, between Iowa City and Cedar Rapids, PinSeekers offers a variety of entertainment options, including luxury golf suites, mini bowling, and multi-sports simulators.
Food and Dining
There is a vibrant culinary scene in Iowa City and Cedar Rapids. Iowa City is known for being the culinary capital of the state, with local eateries on almost every street in the downtown area. Iowa City has many incredible restaurants, like St. Burch, The Webster, and Orchard Green.
With so many great restaurants to choose from, the Downtown District has devised the perfect solution – Taste of Iowa City. The annual event showcases the variety of menus in the area. Taste of Iowa City presents the perfect opportunity to try many different culinary delights affordably.
Cedar Rapids’ food culture is deeply ingrained in its identity as well, as locally owned, independent restaurants now outnumber chains in Cedar Rapids, making the area a haven for foodies. Cedar Rapids offers diverse dining experiences, from family-friendly to farm-to-table and fine dining, with standout establishments like Cobble Hill, Black Sheep, and The Map Room.
Enhance your dining experience by pairing your meal with award-winning locally crafted beers such as those from Clock House Brewing and Lion Bridge Brewing Company. These breweries have acquired fame for their innovative brews, which perfectly complement the city’s restaurants. Foodies can look forward to participating in Cedar Rapids’ annual restaurant week, celebrating the city’s vibrant dining scene. Restaurant Week encourages guests to explore and support a local showcase of Cedar Rapids’ culinary delights.
Let’s not forget the charming restaurants located in towns within the corridor. Cedar Ridge Winery in Swisher attracts wine enthusiasts with its beautiful vineyards and award-winning varietals. North Liberty has culinary gems like the Tin Roost adding to the area’s great eateries.
Culture
Iowa City, housing the Hawkeyes and the renowned University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, is famed for the Hawkeye Wave tradition at Kinnick Stadium. Iowa City is known for the “Iowa Nice” Midwest vibe, reflected in this heartwarming tradition.
Additionally, Iowa City notably hosts the prestigious Iowa Writers Workshop. With many Pulitzer Prize winners among its graduates, the workshop has influenced iconic movies and TV shows, leading to the city’s UNESCO City of Literature recognition. These cultural elements contribute to Iowa City being acknowledged as one of the Happiest Cities in the United States.
Cedar Rapids adds to the region’s cultural vibrancy with live entertainment, impressive museums, historic districts, and a thriving theater scene. The Ideal Theater & Bar stands out as a great venue for live entertainment in The District. Cedar Rapids is also home to the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, showcasing works by Grant Wood, a Cedar Rapids native. The city fosters creativity and community engagement by uplifting entrepreneurs and artists through the NewBo City Market. The Iowa City-Cedar Rapids corridor is a cultural hub, blending academics, art, sports, and community.
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Nightlife
Experience why Iowa City is a good place to live through its vibrant nightlife scene. From live shows to cocktail bars, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Indulge in a live show at The Englert or soak up the lively atmosphere of a late-night bar. Whatever your preference, Iowa City’s nightlife promises to keep the excitement going well into the night.
Cedar Rapids’ nightlife offers a vibrant array of options for fun and entertainment. For those looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, Bricks Bar & Grill, or Pub 217 are great options. If you’re looking for more of a club atmosphere, head to Hazzard County American Saloon for lively music.
Summer Traditions
Summertime in the corridor brings a multitude of activities and events to enjoy. Iowa City’s Downtown Block Party is known for being the city’s biggest event of the year taking over 14 blocks downtown. The block party offers free activities for all ages like Dueling Pianos, Silent Disco, and more.
The Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival is a three-week festival boasting the largest fireworks show in Iowa. Also, the Lincoln Highway Nitty Gritty is an open-air show featuring over 70 vendor booths with more than 8,000 visitors. Both of these annual events offer a budget-friendly way to celebrate the holiday.
Other communities within the corridor like North Liberty and Coralville have their own exciting offerings. North Liberty’s Blues & BBQ festival is a summer tradition with live music, family-friendly activities, barbecue, and craft beer. Coralville Farmers Market at the Iowa River Landing offers fresh produce, baked goods, handmade crafts, and jewelry. Additionally, there are live performances from guest musicians to add to the atmosphere.
Conclusion
Altogether, the Cedar Rapids-Iowa City area is known for being a good place to live, offering affordability, education, transportation, recreation, culinary delights, and a rich culture. With a low cost of living and affordable housing, this area provides opportunities for families, professionals, and students alike. Access to nearby cities, the airport, and efficient public transit systems make travel seamless.
Residents enjoy an abundance of recreational activities, dining scenes, and cultural events, making the corridor a welcoming place to call home. Prospective residents contemplating a move should consider the mix of amenities and natural beauty this corridor has to offer.
Choosing to move to the Iowa City-Cedar Rapids area surely promises a well-rounded lifestyle for those seeking a welcoming community with diverse experiences.
Sarah is a graduate student and part-time researcher at the University of Iowa. She is a small town Iowan girl who loves traveling, naps, and trying new restaurants!