Quad Cities
The Quad Cities region bills itself as “cool, creative, connected & prosperous” – and for good reason. Comprised of six counties in Illinois and Iowa, the Quad Cities boasts a low cost of living, easy commutes, nationally regarded K-12 schools and ample cultural and recreational amenities including theaters, riverfront attractions, hundreds of miles of trails and a plethora of dining options.
The Quad Cities region also has a manufacturing legacy as deep as the river that runs through it. It’s home to global powerhouse John Deere, along with other major brands such as Arconic and HNI Corporation. As a bustling business hub (without the big city headaches), more than 150 companies on Fortune’s 500 and 1000 lists call the Quad Cities region home.
Fast Facts
- Regional population: 140,826
- 60 miles east of Iowa City
- #1 in Iowa for Economic Growth (Area Development Magazine, 2020)
- #3 Best Affordable Places to Live (U.S. News & World Report, 2021-22)
- #3 Most Diversified Metro Economy in U.S. (Livability.com, 2020)
- Ranked Top 10 Places for Millennials to Live (RealtyHop, 2018)
Celebrating Bix Beiderbecke
Founded in 1972, the Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Society keeps the memories and musical accomplishments alive of the famous cornetist, pianist, composer and Davenport native. Each August, the Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz Festival attracts fans from around the world.
Millennials on the Move
Thanks to its size, expanding job opportunities within the manufacturing industry and local scene, the Quad Cities region was named among the “Top 10 Places for Millennials” in a 2018 RealtyHop study.
Affordability in Quad Cities
When comparing median household incomes and median home prices, Nerd Wallet determined Quad Cities was among the Top 5 Most Affordable Mid-Size Metros in 2018.
