Iowa City is a vibrant and diverse city that attracts people from all over the world. With a booming economy, excellent schools, and a wide variety of recreational opportunities, it’s no wonder why Iowa City has become a top choice for those looking to relocate. Although famous for the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, a hub for education and the arts, it’s not just the academics that draw people to this city; Iowa City is also known for its friendly people, affordable cost of living, and beautiful natural surroundings. So, if you’re considering moving to Iowa City, this article will provide you with the top picks for where to live. After reading this article, you’ll better understand what to expect from living in Iowa City and which neighborhoods might be the best fit for your lifestyle.
A Brief Overview of the Neighborhoods in Iowa City
Iowa City is a vibrant and diverse city, and its neighborhoods offer a range of options for residents looking for the perfect place to call home. From the bustling downtown area to the quieter suburban communities, each area of Iowa City has its unique charm and character. The downtown area is known for its lively nightlife, cultural attractions, and trendy restaurants. The Northside neighborhood boasts historic homes, tree-lined streets, and a thriving arts community. The Eastside area is famous for families, with its excellent schools, parks, and community events. Meanwhile, the Westside neighborhood is a mix of residential and commercial areas, with plenty of shopping and dining options. Overall, Iowa City’s neighborhoods provide various options for residents of all ages and lifestyles.
Here is a clear breakdown of Iowa City neighborhoods
Eastside Neighborhoods
- Goosetown: A historic neighborhood with a strong sense of community, known for its charming homes, eclectic shops, and cozy cafes.
- Wetherby: A quiet and family-friendly neighborhood, home to various parks, schools, and recreational facilities.
- Oakland is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial properties, and it is home to various restaurants, shops, and businesses.
Westside Neighborhoods:
- Peninsula: A scenic neighborhood located on a peninsula between the Iowa River and Interstate 80, known for its beautiful homes and views of the river.
- Bryn Mawr: A quiet and upscale neighborhood with various large and stately homes.
- Mormon Trek: A historic neighborhood with a strong sense of community, known for its unique architecture and close-knit community.
Downtown Neighborhoods:
- Downtown Iowa City: The heart of the city and home to various shops, restaurants, businesses, and attractions, including the University of Iowa campus.
- Northside: A trendy and vibrant neighborhood renowned for its nightlife, arts scene, and eclectic mix of shops and restaurants.
- Southside: A family-friendly neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial properties, Southside has a variety of parks, schools, and recreational facilities.
Whatever your lifestyle or budget, you’re sure to find the perfect neighborhood to call home in Iowa City.
How is the Housing and Real Estate Scene in Iowa City?
The housing and real estate scene in Iowa City is thriving, with various options available for both renters and buyers. The city boasts a mix of historic homes, modern apartments, and a growing number of luxury developments. With the University of Iowa in the heart of town, student housing is also a significant part of the market. Home prices in Iowa City have continued to rise steadily in recent years, with a healthy demand for properties driven by a robust local economy and a growing population.
The median home price sits significantly below the national average, while property values have consistently increased over the past few years. The city boasts a booming economy driven by the University of Iowa, healthcare, and technology sectors and offers a vibrant cultural scene, excellent schools, and ample recreational opportunities.
What Amenities and Lifestyle Features Are Available in Iowa City?
Iowa City boasts a unique blend of cultural richness, academic vibrancy, and a welcoming community spirit; it also offers its residents a wide range of amenities. Iowa City has everything you need to enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling life, from top-notch healthcare facilities and recreational spaces to excellent educational institutions.
Educational Facilities
Iowa City, home to the University of Iowa, is renowned for its academic prowess. As a resident, you have access to world-class educational opportunities, including libraries, research facilities, and cultural events hosted by the university. The city’s commitment to quality education also extends to its public schools, ensuring a high standard of learning for students of all ages.
Parks and Recreational Spaces
Every day can be a picnic vacation in Iowa City, which has many well-maintained parks and recreational areas. From the expansive Iowa River Landing to the scenic trails of Hickory Hill Park, residents enjoy outdoor activities, picnics, and community events throughout the year in green spaces that provide a refreshing balance to urban living.
Cultural and Artistic Scene
What is the perfect city life without a bit of culture? Iowa City embraces its cultural identity, offering a rich tapestry of artistic expression. The downtown area teems with art galleries, theaters, and performance spaces, catering to those passionate about the arts.
Dining and Culinary Experiences
Regarding dining, Iowa City has a vibrant food scene that offers a diverse range of cuisines. From traditional American fare to exotic international dishes, there is something for everyone in the city. The city also has several bars and pubs where residents can socialize and enjoy a night out with friends. Farmers’ markets and locally sourced ingredients contribute to a thriving food culture.
Healthcare Facilities
Access to quality healthcare is a crucial aspect of any community, and Iowa City excels in this regard. The city is home to reputable hospitals, clinics, and healthcare providers, ensuring residents have comprehensive medical services.
Employment Opportunities
If you’re considering moving to Iowa City, you’ll be pleased to find a wide variety of job opportunities available. The city has a robust corporate sector, with many different industries represented, from tech companies to manufacturing. There are also plenty of job openings in education and research.
Healthcare is another primary industry in Iowa City, with many opportunities for medical professionals. If you’re interested in the arts, there are many cultural organizations and creative industries to explore, and the city is also becoming a hub for technology and innovation, with exciting prospects in areas like software development and IT management.
Overall, Iowa City is an excellent place to pursue your career goals while enjoying a high quality of life.
Move to Iowa City with Ease: Chose Horizon Movers
Moving to a new city can be exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. If you plan a move to Iowa City, you don’t have to go through it alone. Horizon Movers and Climate Control Storage is here to make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible.
With over 20 years of experience and a 5-star customer rating, we are the trusted choice for relocations to Iowa City. We offer:
- Professional moving services: We handle local and long-distance moves with expertise so you can relax and focus on settling into your new home.
- Efficient packing: We provide free packing boxes and use professional techniques to ensure your belongings are safe and secure during transport.
- Climate-controlled storage: We offer secure storage solutions for any of your belongings that you must keep in storage for some time.
- Junk removal: We can help you remove unwanted items, making your move even more accessible.
We understand that every move is unique and are committed to providing personalized service to meet your needs. We offer a free quote process so you can start planning your move today. Let Horizon Movers take care of all the logistics so you can focus on enjoying your new life in Iowa City. REQUEST A FREE QUOTE TODAY!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Iowa City an excellent place to live?
Iowa City is a great place to live – it offers an urban, suburban mix, plenty of bars and restaurants, affordable median home prices, and is often ranked as one of the best places to live in the Midwest.
What is the most expensive area in Iowa City?
Longfellow is the most expensive neighborhood in Iowa City, while North Liberty is the second fastest-growing city.
Is Iowa City an excellent place to Retire?
Iowa City is an attractive place to retire. With low crime rates and easy access to healthcare, it’s no surprise why retirees choose Iowa City as one of the best towns to retire to. It is also one of the best college towns.
What are some of the best neighborhoods to live in Iowa City?
Eastside, Creekside, Oak Grove, and Lucas Farms are all excellent neighborhoods in Iowa City.
Conclusion
Iowa City is a vibrant and thriving college town that offers many opportunities for residents to enjoy a high quality of life. Its diverse neighborhoods, excellent schools and universities, thriving job market, rich cultural scene, and ample amenities make it an ideal place to call home. If you’re considering a move to Iowa City, you’ll find a welcoming community, diverse housing options, and a bright future awaiting you in this dynamic city.
Choose Horizon Movers to move securely without breaking the bank. REQUEST A FREE QUOTE TODAY!
