Iowa sits right in the middle of the Midwest and is surrounded by the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. This US state has diverse cities, from busy places like Des Moines to quiet, unique towns like Pella. The cities in lowa bring together old traditions and modern living, and this makes them great spots for both tourists and people looking to move there. Iowa offers a genuine slice of American life with plenty of things to do and see, regardless of whether you are interested in the college towns of Iowa City and Ames or the historic sites of Sioux City.
List of cities in Iowa
To help you decide where to visit or settle, let us take a closer look at some of Iowa’s cities to see what they offer in terms of geography, population, and living costs:
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Des Moines, Polk and Warren
It is the capital city with a busy urban atmosphere rich in business opportunities and cultural amenities.
- Area: 209.5 km²
- Population: 2,08,734
- Cost of Living: $647 (one person)
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Cedar Rapids, Linn
This city is known for its thriving arts scene.
- Area: 183 km²
- Population: 1,34,266
- Cost of Living: $657 (one person)
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Davenport, Scott
Davenport is a historic city with a vibrant community along the Mississippi River.
- Area: 163 km²
- Population: 99,868
- Cost of Living: $711 (one person)
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Sioux City, Woodbury and Plymouth
This city is rich in historical sites and cultural institutions.
- Area: 148.5 km²
- Population: 85,543
- Cost of Living: $448.8 (one person).
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Iowa City, Johnson
The lowa city is renowned for its strong literary culture and educational institutions.
- Area: 64.8 km²
- Population: 74,903
- Cost of Living: $734 (one person)
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Ames, Story
Ames is a vibrant town known for its research institutions and good student population.
- Area: 62.7 km²
- Population: 67,282
- Cost of Living: $696 (one person)
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Waterloo, Black Hawk
Waterloo features a blend of industrial history and community events.
- Area: 159 km²
- Population: 66,070
- Cost of Living: $632 (one person)
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Council Bluffs, Pottawattamie
The city is known for its railroading past and modern entertainment options.
- Area: 106.1 km²
- Population: 61,997
- Cost of Living: $696 (one person)
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Dubuque, Dubuque County
Dubuque is a city of historical importance with a modern twist.
- Area: 77.6 km²
- Population: 58,237
- Cost of Living: $689 (one person)
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Cedar Falls, Black Hawk
This city is a cultural hub with ties to higher education and the arts.
- Area: 74.5 km²
- Population: 40,194
- Cost of Living: $514 (one person)
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Bettendorf, Scott
Bettendorf offers a high-quality life with ample recreational opportunities.
- Area: 58.09 km²
- Population: 39,770
- Cost of Living: $1,500-$2,000 (one person)
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Burlington, Des Moines
This city has a rich architectural heritage and community festivals.
- Area: 37.5 km²
- Population: 23,283
- Cost of Living: $732 (one person)
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Pella, Marion
Pella is celebrated for its Dutch heritage and annual Tulip Festival.
- Area: 22.6 km²
- Population: 10,907
- Cost of Living: $456.4 (one person)
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Decorah, Winneshiek
This city in lowa is known for its Scandinavian culture and vibrant arts scene.
- Area: 18.2 km²
- Population: 7,781
- Cost of Living: $492.1 (one person)
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Orange City, Sioux City
It is famous for its Dutch roots and cultural celebrations
- Area: 10.2 km²
- Population: 6,212
- Cost of Living: $464 (one person)
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Winterset, Madison
Winterset is known for historic covered bridges and the birthplace of John Wayne.
- Area: 11.9 km²
- Population: 5,421
- Cost of Living: $489.3 (one person)
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Le Claire, Scott
This town is home to antique shops and the "American Pickers" fame.
- Area: 12.1 km²
- Population: 4,716
- Cost of Living: $492.8 (one person)
Okoboji, Dickinson
Okoboji is a popular city in lowa known for its lakes and leisure activities.
- Area: 4.8 km²
- Population: 768
- Cost of Living: $496 (one person)
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McGregor, Clayton
This city offers a quaint and small-town atmosphere with historic charm.
- Area: 3.4 km²
- Population: 723
- Cost of Living: $528 (one person)
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St. Donatus, Jackson
St. Donatus maintains a strong Luxembourg heritage with unique architectural styles.
- Area: 0.96 km²
- Population: 119
- Cost of Living: $459.6 (one person)
Note that the data is subject to change depending on the economic situation and other factors.
Interesting Facts About the Cities in lowa
Iowa is the only state in the US that is bordered by two significant rivers—the Mississippi on the east and the Missouri on the west. These rivers enhance the scenic beauty of the state’s landscape. They also play a crucial role in its culture and economy. Here are some standout features that make Iowa’s cities unique:
● Biking Across Iowa
Thousands of cyclists attend the Register's Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa every year. It is the longest and oldest recreational bicycle riding event in the world, and it covers over 460 miles across various towns and cities.
● A Haven for Wine Lovers
Iowa might surprise you with its thriving wine culture. The state has over 100 licenced wineries offering more than 40 different varieties of wine. Travellers can explore several wine trails that meander through beautiful landscapes, perfect for tasting and enjoying the local scenery.
● Dutch Traditions in Orange City
Orange City reflects its Dutch roots and has held an annual Tulip Festival since 1933. The event is a vibrant celebration featuring tulip gardens, Dutch costumes, parades, and traditional dances. It draws large numbers of visitors to revel in its colourful festivities.
● Unique Structures
Take a walk on the Davenport Skybridge, a striking cable-stayed bridge that spans 575 feet and rises 50 feet above the ground. It offers stunning views of the river and the city, which are particularly beautiful when lit up at night.
● Visit Time
Visiting Iowa, especially from early September to late October, is ideal. The weather during that time is pleasant. It is also the season of the Iowa State Fair, which is a highlight for any visitor.
Conclusion
Exploring cities in lowa can be an exciting experience, but unexpected events can occur. Securing travel insurance online before you visit ensures you are protected against unforeseen events like travel delays, medical emergencies, or lost belongings. This coverage is particularly valuable in lowa, where you might travel across long distances to explore everything from urban centres like Des Moines to scenic spots like the Loess Hills. You can relax and enjoy Iowa’s rich heritage and natural beauty when you have the right insurance that covers you every step of the way.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.