Iowa City
Perhaps you know Iowa City as home of the University of Iowa Hawkeyes, but have you heard about its “Curious Communities?” If you’re, well, curious as to why they’re called as such, Iowa City and its surrounding communities offer more than a dozen museums, unique boutiques and a hip bar and restaurant scene. As a UNESCO City of Literature, Iowa City is also home to a variety of literary and writing programs. Nearly two dozen Big Ten sports add collegiate excitement to a community already rich in recreation with more than 70 parks near rivers, lakes and trails.
Established companies prosper in Iowa City, but opportunities abound for new businesses, too. Iowa City is part of the ICR (Iowa City-Cedar Rapids) Corridor, a diverse region well-known for its commitment to innovation and entrepreneurism. Considering Iowa City? Don’t let your curiosity get the best of you – make your move today.
Fast Facts
- Population: 74,828
- 27 miles south of Cedar Rapids
- #1 Nicest Place to Live in Iowa; Top 50 Nicest Places to Live in America (Reader's Digest, 2020)
- #3 Best Places to Get a Fresh Start (Livability, 2019)
- #4 of Top 100 Places to Live (Livability, 2019)
- Top 100 Places to Live (Livability, 2020)
A Love of Literature
In 2008, Iowa City joined Edinburgh, Scotland and Melbourne, Australia to become the world’s third UNESCO City of Literature. Others have been added to this distinguished list since, but Iowa City stands as the only U.S. city with this distinct honor.
Taking Flight
Innovation is in the air. Iowa City-based Rantizo is the first and only company in five Midwestern states approved for drone spraying for farmers. According to CEO Michael Ott, “Iowans are good people, nice, honest and straight forward - we do what we are supposed to do and take care of business.”
Cultural Resurgence
Andre Perry sparked a cultural Renaissance in Iowa City when he co-founded the Mission Creek Festival. “The arts are for all, not just a portion of the population - in many ways, I see Iowa leading the way in access to the arts and I’m proud to be a part of it.”
